An examination of the decision styles of project managers: Evidence of significant diversity

It has been suggested that the manner in which a project manager makes deci sions can significantly influence his or her effectiveness and ultimately t he design of systems under his or her direction. Arguments for a structured , systematic approach, as well as arguments for a more well-rounded, 'whole -brained' approach have been made. However, it is perhaps more important to examine what project managers actually are. We surveyed a group of over 20 0 project managers from across the United States, attempting to measure the ir decision making styles, especially as they relate to project management activity. The survey not only identifies a person's propensity towards a pa rticular style of decision making, but also his or her propensity towards b rain dominance, an idea or action orientation, and a preferred management l evel of decision making. The results of this study indicate that though eac h project manager is unique, as a group project managers are well-rounded a nd tend to solve problems utilizing a 'whole-brained' approach. (C) 1999 El sevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.