A Learning Framework for Project Management

The contribution of this paper is a framework for understanding and practicing learning in a project environment. The framework includes the goals, processes, and tools for learning. The project management and learning processes are described using the plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycle from quality management. The PDSA cycle is used to define the learning process that occurs within and between projects. Data from a survey of practicing project managers supports the learning framework by providing an assessment of project management practices. Four implications are provided for project managers to use in focusing the learning activities of a project team.