{"id":10954,"date":"2023-08-30T14:28:37","date_gmt":"2023-08-30T12:28:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.der-digitalisierungsberater.de\/overworked-and-overwhelmed-project-managers-in-digital-transformation\/"},"modified":"2026-05-04T11:28:51","modified_gmt":"2026-05-04T09:28:51","slug":"overworked-and-overwhelmed-project-managers-in-digital-transformation","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.der-digitalisierungsberater.de\/en\/overworked-and-overwhelmed-project-managers-in-digital-transformation\/","title":{"rendered":"Overworked and overwhelmed project managers in digital transformation"},"content":{"rendered":"

Or when volume causes quality to suffer among software vendors\u2019 project managers<\/strong><\/p>\n

Implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system\u2014like other solutions\u2014is a complex undertaking that requires well-thought-out planning and coordination.<\/p>\n

Project managers, especially those working for software vendors and responsible for managing multiple ERP implementation projects, face unique challenges.<\/p>\n

There is no fixed rule or exact number for how many projects a project manager can efficiently lead during an ERP implementation, as project complexity and scope, as well as the project manager\u2019s capabilities, all play a role.<\/p>\n

Ultimately, however, one rule always applies: the more projects, the more likely the project manager will fail\u2014and potentially the individual projects as well.<\/p>\n

In this blog post, we look at the topic in detail and also provide a few sample calculations that can help you determine whether the project manager is overworked.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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An apple for the project manager and mentor is only given when everything runs smoothly<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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Here are some factors that should be considered when determining the appropriate number of projects:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Project complexity<\/strong><\/p>\n

The more complex the projects, the more attention and resources they require. Projects with many technical challenges, integration aspects, or extensive customizations may demand more time and energy from the project manager. <\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong> Implementing \u201conly\u201d financial accounting in an ERP project is usually less complex than turning an entire company upside down by rolling out the new solution across all business areas\u2014and not simply \u201cmaking the old new again\u201d<\/em><\/strong>, but truly digitally transforming the company. (new paint on an old car)
\nComplexity also includes topics such as integrating third-party systems, additional locations\u2014especially abroad\u2014whether the pure standard can be used, etc. <\/p>\n

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Project duration<\/strong><\/p>\n

The length of the project timeline matters. Project managers may be able to lead several shorter projects at the same time, while long-running projects may require more focus. <\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong> A project that lasts only 6 months is certainly less complex than one that lasts 18 months\u2014especially because longer projects also require you to deal with potential necessary changes that arise in a dynamic business environment.
\nIn addition, long projects carry the risk of losing focus and motivation. <\/p>\n

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Resource availability<\/strong><\/p>\n

The availability of qualified team members and other resources affects the project manager\u2019s workload. If sufficient resources are available, the project manager may be able to handle multiple projects. <\/p>\n

Example:<\/strong> Given the current situation regarding availability, project managers tend to plan as rigidly as possible. But if employees then fall ill or leave the company, a planning model cast in concrete and built around availability quickly collapses.
\nIf several projects are affected at the same time, things become particularly critical.
\n(See also \u201cProject management tools\u201d further down.)<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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Digital transformation projects are complex. Only with the right project manager who has sufficient time and expertise will you reach your goal <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>

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