While the gig economy allows project managers to pick from a diverse talent pool and achieve a better work life balance, it does come with its own unique set of challenges. Navigating project management challenges in the gig economy will require adaptability and a strategic approach as well as soft skills such as communication and organisational skills. It is vital that you are aware of the unique complexities of the gig economy. Here, we take a look at the complexities that gig economy project managers must face.
Coordination and communication
In many projects, a gig economy project manager will have teams that are based in different time zones and continents. Due to these complexities, communication and collaboration can be difficult. While project managers may rely on tools such as Slack or email, real-time interaction is much more difficult to arrange. Scheduling meetings that everyone can attend can be somewhat of a logistical nightmare, and there is much effort required to ensure expectations are clear and tasks are managed correctly.
Building a cohesive team
If team members never meet face-to-face, establishing rapport and trust can be difficult. Project managers need to ensure they create a virtual space for interaction between team members, find ways to celebrate successes and ensure everyone feels like they belong.
Navigating diverse skill sets and work styles
Unlike on the ground project management, where you will meet people who are likely working in sync with the way you do business, those in the gig economy may not share your method of working for a variety of reasons. Diversity within teams can be extremely useful, as it offers unique perspectives on situations. However, project managers must tread carefully to ensure that diverse work styles and skill sets align with the deliverables of the project.
Financial challenges
Working with a budget is one of the first things you are taught in PM courses like the APM Project Fundamentals Qualification. However, it can be difficult to allocate resources in a variable freelance market. Therefore, project managers must balance the need for a certain skill set with the constraints of their budget. In addition, they may need to be flexible with the timescales freelancers work to.
Legal challenges
Working with people across borders requires strict adherence to a range of regulations, particularly when it comes to contracts. Ensuring that you have covered all of the legal complexities is vital for ensuring intellectual property is protected, and project scope and deliverables are clearly outlined.
Data security
Perhaps one of the most important considerations to make is how to keep data secure when a project team is scattered across the globe. Project managers must include plans for robust security measures, explain data handling protocols clearly and ensure that all freelancers are aware of their rights and responsibilities for the protection of data, within the project.
While there are challenges to overcome, a project manager can draw on lessons they have learnt in training along with the soft skills they have developed over time. By being aware of the challenges and methods of overcoming them, project management in the gig economy does not have to be overwhelming.
