‍[Upcoming Events]

[Editorial]

Dear Readers,

Welcome to another enriching edition of our monthly newsletter!

As we navigate through July and August 2024, this issue brings you an abundance of expert insights, inspiring stories and valuable opportunities that underline the dynamic world of project management.

With just over half of 2024 behind us, the PMI Switzerland Chapter has prepared to deliver an exciting second half of the year and assures you that 'the best is yet to come'. With less than 2 months until the PM Conference 2024, the volunteers are ramping up to deliver a spectacular event. The team is enthusiastically levelling up across all elements, and I, for one, am extremely excited to participate in this flagship event.

For those eager to connect with peers and leaders, make sure to secure your spot at what promises to be an enlightening gathering of minds, enthusiastic about innovations and trends within the project management field. Should you wish to know more about what's on offer, this edition offers two articles to whet your appetite.

We bring you an exclusive interview with Pia Henzelmann, the PM Conference 2024 Lead, wherein she shares some behind-the-scenes information, along with her insights on what makes this year's conference a must-attend event. Readers can also expect some teasers on some of the ground-breaking ideas that will be showcased.

Further PM Conference information can be gleaned from Joanna Keller's article, in which the conference program is announced, as well as special offers, including an invitation to the PM Conference LinkedIn Networking Group.

Readers will also hear from our VP of Sponsors & Partners, Mafalda Amaro, in this month's Message from the Board. She delves into the strategic vision that continues to steer the Social Impact Team's endeavours towards remarkable achievements in the field of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

To illustrate the nature of the Social Impact Team's influence within the CSR domain, Isabelle Novarrez shares the team's latest initiative. In an impactful feature titled Project Management Mentorship for NGOs - The Project Suicide in Pakistan, she details vital mentorship to address the daunting challenges of NGOs. This piece not only sheds light on the critical need for structured project management in humanitarian efforts, but also highlights the life-changing impacts such projects have on communities.

This edition also showcases a retrospective of the first Agile Community of Practice (CoP) session, hosted as Swissquote. At this session, Antonio Morisco delivered his insights on optimising Value Stream Management, and how leveraging VSM could revolutionise how you run your projects.

Lastly, the chapter announces the initiation of the 2025-2026 election process. We encourage all members to participate actively in this crucial undertaking, as it shapes the future of our institution.

We hope that you find this combined July and August Newsletter stimulating and informative, and that these pages inspire you to create a blueprint for future success. Happy reading!

Best regards,

Lisa

[Message from the Board]

‍Embracing Corporate Social Responsibility: Partnering with PMI Switzerland for Project Success and Social Impact

Dear PMI Switzerland Members,

In today's dynamic business landscape, the significance of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become more prominent than ever.

Yes, AI is impacting all of our lives, but let's not forget that products and services are made by people for people.

Companies are now valued not only for their financial performance, or technical readiness, but also for their contributions towards societal well-being, and environmental sustainability. This shift presents a unique opportunity for organisations to showcase their commitment to CSR, whilst achieving project success through strategic collaborations.

This is also one of the main reasons project managers decide to volunteer - to make an impact by giving back to their communities. Personally, it has been the main reason that I joined PMI as a volunteer. So, I invite you to dive deeper into CSR for a moment.

Why CSR matters

CSR involves environment stewardship, ethical labour practices, and community engagement. By integrating these principles, companies are able to enhance their reputation, build customer loyalty, and contribute to societal well-being.

Partnering with PMI Switzerland offers many benefits to your organisations:

1. Expertise and Knowledge:
   • Leverage our network of certified project managers and experts to enhance CSR projects
   • Participate in workshops, mentoring and training programs to remain ahead of industry trends
2. Community Engagement:
   • Collaborate on social impact projects
   • Support professional development programs for future project management professionals
   • Work with Project Managers without Borders
3. Sustainability and Innovation:
   • Partner on projects that prioritise sustainability and innovation
   • Share and learn CSR success stories with our wider community
4. Visibility:
   • Enhance your visibility by partnering with a globally recognised organisation in project management
   • Showcase your CSR commitment through joint events and publications

Join us in making a difference

We invite you to explore these partnership opportunities and become part of our mission to drive project success, whilst making a tangible difference in society. Together, we can set new goals for corporate social responsibility and project excellence.

Contact us to explore the opportunities available - Social Impact

Let's work together to maximise project success and elevate our world!

Warm regards,

Mafalda Amaro

[Article]

Project Management Mentorship for NGOs - The Project Suicide in Pakistan

‍As part of our Social Impact activities, we provide free project management training, mentorship, and coaching to NGOs, based on their specific needs. In June 2024, Mafalda and I had the privilege of conducting 4 hours of project management mentorship for The Project Suicide (Pakistan).

This rewarding experience underscored the transformative impact of our Social Impact Team's initiatives.

The Project Suicide, in Pakistan, is a crucial endeavour aimed at combating the rising suicide rates in the country. The initiative focuses on raising mental health awareness, providing education and resources to students who become ambassadors, and fostering a supportive environment for those facing mental health challenges.

In attendance, were more than 70 dedicated students, from over 10 regions of Pakistan, representing various fields, such as life sciences, humanities, social sciences, and management.

Our training covered foundational project management concepts, agile frameworks, mega trends, the future of work, and AI applications in project management. The Power Skills were also highlighted as essential in mastering project management today.

[Article]

Early bird tickets closing soon - Join us for an exciting PM Conference 2024!

‍Dear PMI Members and Friends,

Time is running out... there's only 1 week left to secure your early bird tickets for the PM Conference 2024! Dont' forget to register on or before July 31^st, to benefit from the CHF 50 early bird discount. PMI Switzerland Chapter members receive an additional CHF 50 discount.

Artificial Intelligence is revolutionising the world, transforming industries, and redefining how we approach challenges. As a project manager with over 14 years of experience, I have seen first-hand the incredible impact of AI on project management. It is vital to stay up-to-speed with these changes, to remain competitive and effective. AI can enhance decision-making, optimise resource allocation, and streamline processes. By understanding and leveraging AI, we can elevate our projects to new heights of efficiency and innovation.

If someone asked me why they should attend the PM Conference, I would say that this event is not only an incredible opportunity to deepen your knowledge on how AI is transforming project management, but it is also going to be a lot of fun. For instance, you can join one of the workshops, such as "Elevating Data Literacy to Drive AI Effectiveness in Projects" and discover how improving data literacy can maximise the impact of AI in your projects. Then there's my personal favourite, our exclusive LinkedIn PM Conference Networking Group and "Brain Date" session, which will help you form valuable professional connections before and during the event.

[Article]

Interview with Pia Henzelmann, PM Conference 2024 Lead

On the eve of June 20^th, I was fortunate to meet with the PMI CH PM Conference 2024 Lead, Pia Henzelmann. Pia has been an invaluable, and extremely active, volunteer since 2020 in the PMI Switzerland Chapter. After having joined the chapter, she rose rapidly through the ranks, from Senior Events Member to Events Director (2021), to VP of Events (2022). Currently she fulfills the role of Events Experience Director, wherein she mentors and gives professional advice to the events teams across Switzerland.

As September 23^rd is rapidly approaching, many are inquisitive about what this year's PM Conference has in store for participants. Without diminishing the element of surprise, the below interview offers a sneak peek into the event proceedings.

Lisa: Pia, we're all really looking forward to the PM Conference, and who better to inform us on what's to come, than the Lead herself. To begin with, could you elaborate on the theme AI Unveiled: Transforming Projects and Organisations with Smart Innovation, and how it is particularly relevant in today's context?

Pia: Originally the theme was Innovation in Project Management, another pervasive theme in the domain of Project Management, however, the steering committee realised that there is a big demand for AI, along with many opportunities for advancing AI in project management. For example, how the utilisation of AI tools and applications can benefit individuals and organisations in driving efficiencies. We wanted to leverage those ideas and make sure that we can offer that value to our attendees.

Lisa: So, with the demand being so high for AI, what sets the PMI Switzerland PM Conference apart from other conferences?

[Retrospective]

Zurich Networking Apéro - June 20th, 2024

‍At the end of a sweltering hot day, and under threat of rain, 15 professionals flocked to Sphéres to enjoy refreshments with fellow project managers and project management enthusiasts.

As always, the venue was cosy and welcoming, and it was not long before all who arrived were deep in conversation. Once again, the Chapter welcomed individuals that spanned a multitude of cultures, roles, and industries, but all sharing in the delight of meeting with both old and new connections.

Like-minded people engaged in a range of conversational topics... from social to professional... from shared to novel experiences... and from failures to successes.

Over too soon, yet eagerly anticipating the next Zurich Networking Apéro.

Be sure to register for this popular event in the coming months!

See you soon!

[Article]

Unlocking the Power of Value Stream Management: Insights from Antonio Morisco

‍The PMI Switzerland Chapter was delighted to welcome Antonio Morisco, Program Manager at Swissquote, to the Agile Community of Practice event. At this event, hosted by Swissquote on July 27th, Antonio delivered insights on Value Stream Management (VSM). As organisations pursue greater efficiency in their agile transformations, the understanding and optimisation of value streams is crucial. Antonio's expertise and practical insights offered attendees a solid foundation to apply VSM in their own contexts.

What is Value Stream Management (VSM)?

Value Stream Management is a lean business practice, focused on the improvement of the flow of value to customers, through the management and optimisation of the sequence of activities involved in producing a product, or delivering a service. Examination of an entire lifecycle (from concept to delivery), through the lens of VSM, assists organisations in the elimination of waste, enhancement of efficiency, and ensures that every step in the process adds value.

[Article]

Announcing the PMI Switzerland Chapter Elections

‍At PMI, our volunteers are the cornerstone of all our initiatives. This ethos is reflected not only in our newsletter, website, and events, but also in our Chapter's strategy and leadership.

As we approach the 2025-2026 election term, we are actively seeking committed PMI Switzerland Chapter members who:

• Embody PMI values - Live and breathe the principles that guide our organisation
• Innovate - Bring practical ideas to elevate our Chapter to new heights
• Take initiative- Exhibit a hands-on attitude to co-lead various committees, workstreams, and initiatives
• Handle complexity - Manage complex programs and demanding stakeholders with ease
• Stand for election - Are willing to run in the upcoming PMI Swiss Chapter elections
• Engage and collaborate - Ready for action, teamwork, and fun!
• Commit to volunteering - Can dedicate themselves to a 2-year volunteer role within:
  • Board of Directors,
  • Election Committee, or
  • Financial Audit

Should you see yourself fitting this description, you are invited to submit your nomination request to any current Board of Directors member, or directly to the Elections Team.

The Election Application Process shall commence in August 2024.

Together, let's empower people to transform ideas into reality!

Your Election Committee

Kathrin Lutz, PMP, ACP and Marina Satapathy, PMP

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[Community PMI CH]

Members Update

A warm welcome to all new members that joined our Chapter.
Congratulations also to the members who obtained certifications.

The following member provided information about themselves: Anna Bajzikova, Konstantinos Tzecheridis, Miguel Muiños-Gutierrez.

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‍The PMI Switzerland Chapter is a non-profit professional business organization, and is a chartered chapter of the Project Management Institute (PMI), Newtown Square, PA, USA.

Views and opinions expressed in the newsletter are those of the authors and, unless otherwise stated, do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the chapter or PMI or imply partnership.

© Copyright 2022 Project Management Institute Switzerland Chapter. All rights reserved.

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