Right people, right project? : Maximizing skills allocation in the project management environment

Purpose This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies. Design/methodology/approach This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context. Findings Much has been made in recent years of the so-called agile ways of working and how they benefit all kinds of process-based working practices. First promoted in the 1990s in tech startups and communities, it has rapidly taken hold of digital development teams, and has begun to be adopted outside these as the most effective, efficient way to “get stuff done”. And even if you ignore the evangelists with their Post-It notes and Sharpies, it is hard not to be swayed by the sheer logic of breaking tasks down and working on them as teams in an intense, focused manner until the task is complete, and then moving on to the next one. Practical implications The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world’s leading organizations. Originality/value The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.