Intelligent Disobedience : The Difference between Good and Great Project Managers
By Bob McGannon, PMP

The job of a Project Manager (PM) is often described as managing the triple constraints; scope, resources and schedule. In reality, this represents the GOAL of the PM. The PM must manage the production of the defined deliverables (scope), while being mindful of both the cost as well as caring for and feeding the people working on the project (resources). These must all be done within project timeframes (schedule).

However, the presence of risk, business concerns, technical issues, individual perceptions and priorities present frequent obstacles to the PM, who is pursuing success as measured by the triple constraints. Many of these obstacles can be overcome with diligence and communication, which usually comes naturally to those in the PM role. In some instances however, these obstacles are formidable and can involve:

• Proposing unpopular options/opinions
• Standing up to senior management
• Crafting compelling arguments/justifications to garner business support
• “Bending” rules and processes when appropriate
• Applying non-traditional techniques to create “unexpected” impressions as a means to change stakeholder perceptions
• Using communication and influence skills to protect the organization from itself!

Performing these challenging tasks is what separates great PMs from average PMs. So what do the great PMs do to succeed at this formidable list of tasks? Great PMs utilize “intelligent disobedience”.

What “Intelligent Disobedience” is not!

Engaging in “intelligent disobedience” does not mean that PMs become “flaming-haired, bulging-eyed” radicals. It certainly is not an excuse to tell half-truths, withhold information or intentionally break corporate rules without communication to management. Nor is “intelligent disobedience” counter to the principles of the Project Management Institute (PMI®). In fact, “intelligent disobedience” supports the principles promoted by PMI®; especially in the areas of risk, human resource management and ethics. This will be discussed in more detail later in this article.

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