Interactive case study discussions are an effective way to engage participants in analyzing and solving project management challenges collaboratively. They provide a platform for sharing insights, discussing solutions, and learning from each other’s experiences.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to conducting interactive case study discussions with examples:
Interactive Case Study Discussion: Managing a Complex IT Implementation Project
Scenario: Participants are presented with a case study involving a complex IT implementation project in a large organization. The project is behind schedule, over budget, and facing resistance from end-users due to poor communication and inadequate change management.
Steps:
Group Formation: Divide participants into small groups, ideally of 4-6 members each, ensuring a mix of backgrounds and experiences. Designate a facilitator for each group.
Case Study Review: Provide each group with the case study materials, including project documents, emails, and stakeholder feedback. Allocate sufficient time for participants to review and familiarize themselves with the case.
3. Group Discussion (Part 1): In their groups, participants discuss the key challenges faced by the project team, considering aspects like scope changes, communication breakdowns, and resistance to change. Each group identifies the main issues contributing to project difficulties.
4. Plenary Discussion (Part 1): Bring all groups together for a plenary session. Each group shares the challenges they identified, and the facilitator compiles a list on a shared screen or whiteboard.
5. Group Discussion (Part 2): In their groups, participants brainstorm potential strategies and recommendations to address the identified challenges. They should consider communication plans, stakeholder engagement, change management, and project resourcing.
6. Plenary Discussion (Part 2): Reconvene for a plenary session. Each group presents their recommended strategies and recommendations. The facilitator compiles a comprehensive list on the shared screen or whiteboard.
7. Group Consensus: Encourage participants to discuss and prioritize the recommended strategies, focusing on their potential impact and feasibility within the case’s context.
8. Action Plan: In their groups, participants outline an action plan for implementing the agreed-upon strategies, detailing responsibilities and timelines.
9. Presentations: Each group presents their action plan to the entire group. The facilitator facilitates discussions, questions, and feedback.
10. Reflection: Conclude the activity with a reflection session where participants discuss the challenges they faced during the case study discussion and the valuable lessons learned. Encourage them to reflect on how they can apply these lessons to their real-world projects.
Example of a Group Discussion Outcome
One group identifies poor communication as a key challenge in the case study. They propose the following strategy:
Strategy: Implement a comprehensive communication plan that includes regular project updates, feedback channels, and clear communication of project milestones.
Action Steps: Assign a dedicated communication manager responsible for maintaining transparent communication with all stakeholders. Establish regular project status meetings and feedback sessions with end-users. Create a project website or portal for easy access to project information.
Expected Outcome: By improving communication and involving stakeholders in the project’s progress, we anticipate better understanding among team members and increased support from end-users, ultimately helping the project get back on track.
This interactive case study discussion approach encourages participants to apply project management principles to real-world challenges, collaborate effectively with peers, and develop actionable solutions. It’s a valuable learning experience that can enhance project management skills and problem-solving abilities.