Critical thinking: A must-have skill for project managers

Critical thinking is an essential skill for project managers who are responsible for making complex decisions, solving problems, and ensuring the successful completion of projects.

In an environment where variables are constantly changing, deadlines are tight, and resources are limited, the ability to think critically allows project managers to analyse situations, anticipate potential issues, and make informed decisions that keep projects on track.

Consequently, it’s no surprise that 94% of people surveyed by the Reboot Foundation rated critical thinking as extremely important. However, 86% of people believe critical thinking skills are lacking, with 25% admitting that their critical thinking skills have deteriorated. Fortunately, critical thinking skills can be learned and developed.

So, how can project professionals boost their critical thinking skills?

Why is critical thinking important in project management?

Critical thinking involves objectively analysing information, evaluating alternatives, and making decisions based on evidence and logical reasoning. For project managers, critical thinking is crucial for several reasons:

• Problem-solving: Projects often encounter unexpected challenges, such as resource shortages, technical issues, or stakeholder conflicts. Critical thinking enables project managers to assess these problems from multiple angles, identify the root causes, and develop practical solutions
• Decision making: Project managers are required to make numerous decisions throughout the project lifecycle. Critical thinking helps them weigh the positives and negatives of different options, consider potential risks, and choose the best course of action
• Risk management: Identifying and mitigating risks is a key responsibility of project managers. Critical thinking allows them to anticipate potential risks, assess their impact, and develop strategies to avoid or minimise them
• Boost collaboration: Critical thinking also plays a role in managing team dynamics. By objectively evaluating team members’ contributions, project managers can make fair and effective decisions that promote collaboration and productivity
• Enhancing projects: Ultimately, the ability to think critically contributes to better project outcomes by ensuring that decisions are made based on sound reasoning and thorough analysis rather than assumptions or gut feelings

How to develop critical thinking skills

Developing critical thinking skills is a continuous process involving self-awareness, practice, and a willingness to challenge one's assumptions. Here are several strategies that project managers can use to enhance their critical thinking abilities:

Be curious

Critical thinking begins with curiosity. A curious mindset drives project managers to ask qu