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Abstract
Project manager selection is generally based on a resume review, an interview and verbal or written references. This three step selection process has not changed for many years, yet a global online survey conducted as part of this research shows a low level of stakeholder satisfaction with project managers selected using this process. Considering recent advances in our understanding of project manager effectiveness, improvements in staff selection processes and the impact of the project manager on stakeholder satisfaction, this is unsatisfactory. The objective of this research is to demonstrate that focusing on candidate skills, experience and qualities while conducting a more comprehensive and structured project manager selection process than the conventional three step process of a resume review, candidate interview and reference check results in higher stakeholder satisfaction with the project manager selected.
Using a design science approach the author shows that the commonly used three step selection process is unsound due to the incidence of bias in each step and how the low level of satisfaction with current project manager selection processes can be improved. The analysis conducted in this study shows that skills, experience and qualities are the key dimensions that should be examined in order to select a project manager who will meet or exceed stakeholder expectations. This research also shows that a more comprehensive selection process consisting of a role analysis, resume review, personality assessment, structured interview and reference check results in higher stakeholder satisfaction with the selected project manager. These activities were combined into a Project Manager 5 Step Selection Process which was validated using contemporary theory, quantitative techniques and case studies.
This research has improved our understanding of the dimensions which must be considered in project manager selection. It has also shown the essential selection techniques that should be used in project manager selection. These understandings have been used in the development of a practical tool that can be used to improve an organisationâ s project manager selection processes. The case studies conducted during this research show that this more structured and comprehensive process represents a better way forward for project manager selection.