Conflict Resolution in Project Management

Abstract

Conflicts are unavoidable in projects, as conflicts with others is considered part of human nature. While it is unavoidable it is however of great importance to minimize conflict in projects, as they may lead to delays, improper work and poor results, increased cost etc. When properly handled, conflicts can however lead to improved involvement and cohesion as well as clarification of key issues and values. A project manager should thus posess skills in identifying conflict, apporaching and managing conflict as well as creating an environment, that aims to reduce conflicts.

Sourcing of conflictmay come from areas as different as poor communication, differences in values or limited ressources. As there is no one origin, there can be no one solution, i.e. no one-size-fits-all. Hence the manager must possess knowledge of different ways to handle conflict, and know when to tackle conflict and when not to.