Biases in Project Management

Abstract

The human mind is an effective and powerful tool. However, it is not faultless and has some limitations. These limitations include many different types of biases. Being aware of these limitations is crucial for all project managers. By acknowledging biases and applying appropriate measures, it is possible to counter the effects.

The definition of bias in the Oxford dictionary is split in four meanings, two of whom are relevant in project management and will be addressed in this article:

1. “a strong feeling in favour of or against one group of people, or one side in an argument, often not based on fair judgement.”
2. “the fact that the results of research or an experiment are not accurate because a particular factor has not been considered when collecting the information.”

The first definition is tied to people and communications between either team members or stakeholders and is often called cognitive bias. The latter can be related to uncertainty and risk management e.g., optimism bias.

Bias is important in a team setting and therefore falls under the realm of project management. It can be found in project management literature e.g. in Guide to the Project Body of Knowledge in most chapters where "Interpersonal and Team Skills" or "Expert Skills" are mentioned.

In this article the different types of biases related to Project Management are examined in more detail. Measures to counter them are presented and finally limitations considered.

The Big Idea

Cognitive Bias

In Progress

Optimism Bias

In Progress

References

https://app.knovel.com/hotlink/toc/id:kpGPMBKP02/guide-project-management/guide-project-management https://www.oxfordlearnersdictionaries.com/definition/english/bias_1?q=bias