Integrating Quantum Theory principles into Project Management is still evolving and needs further research and testing. Nevertheless, due to the innovative and significant nature of this approach and its considerable potential, it deserves to be evaluated.
It is widely recognized that Quantum Theory fundamentally deals with uncertainty, which is a critical factor in the deviations that can arise during project execution. This leads to essential questions for the Project Manager or Planner when confronted with a deviation that jeopardizes the schedule and budget: How could this have been prevented? What actions should be taken now?
Answering this question, some experts in the field have referenced the principles of quantum mechanics related to uncertainty, specifically Superposition and Complementarity.
Quantum Superposition suggests that, in any process, a defined state does not exist; instead, multiple overlapping states coexist simultaneously. The definition of any state is determined only when the process is intervened. This means that the outcome influences the state before the intervention, and the origin and consequence of any action are interconnected and interact with each other. Here, an example of intervening is observing the process (as evidence of the "observer effect", see the outcome of adding observation to the "Double-Slit Experiment" on a light beam).
Quantum Complementarity suggests that conflicting interpretations can actually be complementary. This means that for a specific phenomenon, different explanations may seem exclusive or interchangeable, but upon closer inspection, they are not mutually exclusive; rather, they coexist or complement each other.
How can the quantum principles of Superposition and Complementarity be considered in Project Management?
Superposition is a principle that highlights the "observer effect," which states that the act of observing or intervening can impact the outcome. This means that even the best-laid plans can be altered by interference, leading to blurred actions. To manage this situation, it would be relevant to gather information from unobservable sources and intervene with minimal disturbance to the ongoing process. Knowing when and how to intervene is crucial, considering the observer effect. When it comes to intervention, the timing will depend on the situation, and the observer effect should be considered. The intervention should focus on controlling the unavoidable damage caused by the intervention and evaluating the results without disrupting the ongoing process.
On the other hand, the application of Complementarity involves accepting that there can be multiple incompatible solutions. Instead of enforcing a single planned solution, it's advisable to promote and allow for multiple possible solutions.
Extending the principles of quantum mechanics, which aim to understand the behavior of subatomic particles, to the human scale of everyday life may seem inadequate and perhaps even far-fetched, but the actual implications are still unknown. Therefore, considering these concepts with due caution will allow us to broaden our perspective on how to address deviations in projects.
