What methods can you use to assess problem-solving skills in Enterprise Software project management?

1 Scenario-based questions

One of the most common and effective methods to assess problem-solving skills is to ask scenario-based questions that simulate real-world situations that project managers may encounter. For example, you can ask how they would deal with a change request, a budget overrun, a communication breakdown, or a technical issue. Scenario-based questions can reveal how project managers approach problems, what steps they take to analyze and resolve them, and what tools and techniques they use.

2 Behavioral interviews

Another method to assess problem-solving skills is to conduct behavioral interviews, which focus on the past experiences and actions of project managers. You can ask them to describe a specific problem that they faced in a previous project, how they handled it, what results they achieved, and what they learned from it. Behavioral interviews can demonstrate how project managers apply their skills in practice, what challenges they overcome, and what outcomes they deliver.

3 Role-playing exercises

A third method to assess problem-solving skills is to use role-playing exercises, which involve assigning project managers to different roles and tasks in a simulated project environment. For example, you can ask them to act as a project sponsor, a client, a vendor, or a team member, and give them a problem to solve with other participants. Role-playing exercises can show how project managers interact with others, how they communicate and collaborate, and how they handle conflicts and feedback.

4 Case studies

A fourth method to assess problem-solving skills is to present case studies, which are detailed descriptions of real or hypothetical projects that involve problems and issues. You can ask project managers to read and analyze the case, identify the main problem and its causes, propose possible solutions and alternatives, and recommend the best course of action. Case studies can test how project managers think critically, creatively, and strategically, and how they justify their decisions.

5 Skill tests

A fifth method to assess problem-solving skills is to administer skill tests, which are objective and standardized assessments that measure specific abilities and knowledge related to project management. For example, you can use online platforms or tools that offer skill tests on topics such as project planning, risk management, quality management, or agile methodologies. Skill tests can verify how project managers master the technical and conceptual aspects of project management, and how they apply them to problems.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?