What does digitalization mean for project management

Question

I often hear that digitalization (or digitization) is of growing importance for project management. But what does that mean exactly? Do you have specific examples from your projects?

Answer 1

Digitalization started long ago by using computers for calculations, automatization, and other tools. Think schedules, estimates, resource leveling that were digitalized 60 years ago. PPM added portfolio selection and transparency, dashboards to enhance analysis and presentation. Also looking at the human, collaboration side, after phone and email came instant messaging, videoconferencing, collaboration tools, knowledge bases, which enabled asset reuse on a global level, virtual teams, and follow the sun development.

We are now observing digital twins emerging, what PMBoK calls configuration management systems, the construction industry calls it BIM, it includes 3D data, but also schedule, cost, and operations information. All in one place.

Also, regarding stakeholder engagement, group video analysis of emotions enhance digital empathy, similar to social media analysis, and increase options to influence people.