The Pitfalls of Using a Subject Matter Expert as a Project Manager

In many organizations, the role of a project manager is crucial for ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet the desired quality standards. Traditionally, project managers are trained professionals skilled in managing resources, timelines, and stakeholders to achieve project goals effectively. However, some companies opt to assign subject matter experts (SMEs) to project management roles, believing their deep technical knowledge will enhance project outcomes. While this approach may seem logical on the surface, it can often lead to significant pitfalls that undermine business efficiency and outcome effectiveness. 

Lack of Core Project Management Skills

One of the primary drawbacks of using an SME as a project manager is the potential lack of core project management skills. Effective project management requires a diverse skill set that goes beyond technical expertise. Project managers need skills in planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and communication.

While an SME may excel in their domain knowledge, they may struggle with these essential project management skills, leading to inefficiencies in project execution.

Focus on Technical Detail Over Strategic Oversight

SMEs are typically deeply immersed in the technical aspects of a project. While this depth of knowledge is invaluable for decision-making and problem-solving within their domain, it can also result in a tendency to focus excessively on technical details at the expense of strategic oversight. 

Project managers need to maintain a broader view of the project, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, managing stakeholder expectations, and adapting to changing circumstances. An SME-turned-project manager may find it challenging to strike this balance, potentially compromise the overall project's strategic direction.

Limited Capacity for Stakeholder Management

Effective stakeholder management is another critical aspect of project management. Project managers must navigate relationships with various stakeholders, including clients, team members, executives, and external partners. This involves clear communication, conflict resolution, and ensuring stakeholder buy-in throughout the project lifecycle. 

SMEs, while experts in their field, may not possess the interpersonal skills or experience required to manage these complex relationships effectively, leading to misunderstandings, delays, or even project failures.

Risk of Micromanagement and Team Dynamics

SMEs accustomed to being hands-on in their technical roles may struggle with delegation and trust-building as project managers. This can result in micromanagement tendencies that stifle team autonomy and creativity.

A project manager's role includes empowering team members, fostering collaboration, and removing obstacles to progress. An SME unfamiliar with these dynamics may inadvertently create a work environment that hampers productivity and morale, ultimately impacting project outcomes.

Impact on Business Efficiency and Outcome Effectiveness

Ultimately, the decision to appoint an SME as a project manager can have profound implications for business efficiency and outcome effectiveness. Projects may experience delays, cost overruns, or quality issues due to inadequate project management practices. 

Moreover, the opportunity cost of not leveraging a skilled project manager's expertise extends beyond immediate project outcomes. It can affect organizational reputation, stakeholder trust, and long-term business viability.

Conclusion

While subject matter experts bring invaluable technical knowledge to projects, their transition into project management roles requires careful consideration of the broader skills and competencies needed for successful project delivery.

Organizations committed to optimizing business efficiency and achieving desired outcomes should invest in professional project managers equipped with the requisite skills and experience. By doing so, they can mitigate risks, enhance stakeholder satisfaction, and drive sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive business landscape.