The Importance of Critical Thinking for Programme Managers

In today’s fast-paced and complex business world, critical thinking has become an essential skill for success. Critical thinking enables us to ask important questions, challenge the status quo, and look at problems from different perspectives. It helps us make sound decisions, communicate effectively, and navigate the challenges of the digital age. In this article, we explore the importance of critical thinking in the modern workplace and how it can be mastered.

A critical thinker is someone who can think objectively and analytically, ask relevant questions, and evaluate evidence and arguments. Critical thinking is a key competency for program managers, as it enables them to identify risks, anticipate problems, and make informed decisions. It takes courage to challenge systems, existing behavior, and status quo. For instance, a project or program manager signs many documents per day. How many of these documents or letters do you challenge when you sign them? In many cases, the lack of time hinders a detailed review of documents. But, many times, people sign because other signatures make them believe that everything is in order.

Similarly, challenging management or clients in a meeting with critical questions requires courage. Many people find it easier to say “yes” and go with the flow rather than challenge the status quo. However, critical thinking is essential for success in today’s rapidly changing business environment.

Developing Critical Thinking Skills for Programme Management

#1 Thinking vs. Talking

The first step in critical thinking is to think, not talk. Before drafting or signing a letter or agreeing to a solution in a meeting, stop and think. This is the point where one can figure out if they have enough information for a sound conclusion.

#2 The Importance of Being Open to New Ideas and Viewpoints

Be open to new ideas, facts, and other people’s viewpoints. Be curious and listen. This learning curve is essential to understanding the implications, constraints, risks, assumptions, and consequences of your decisions and conclusions. 

One effective strategy is to actively seek out diverse perspectives and opinions. This can involve engaging in open and honest conversations with colleagues from different backgrounds, attending conferences or workshops that focus on diverse viewpoints, or simply reading articles and books from a variety of sources. By exposing ourselves to different ways of thinking, we can broaden our understanding of complex issues and develop a more nuanced approach to problem-solving.

#3 The Power of Systems Thinking

Reading a book on critical thinking will teach you about thinking patterns, analytical and structural systems, and methods. It will also lead you to systems thinking, which helps you understand complex systems and see the “bigger picture.” Having a global view and the ability to zoom into details if necessary will most likely lead to a different conclusion than what you do, say, write, or how you lead.

What we accept as facts are also beliefs or opinions. Therefore, what is right, wrong, true, or false depends on the situation. Each project or program is unique, and conclusions should not be generalized just because they were the “same” in the last project. Instead, ask, “what do we want to achieve now, or what do we need?”. This question refers to the current situation.

Defining the problem or situation clearly before jumping to conclusions is also crucial. Before sending an email, letter, or presenting a solution, ask yourself if there is a better answer or solution. Imagine sharing your solution with someone more senior, or any of your mentors and listen carefully to the ideas that come up in your brain.

#4 The Importance of Simple Language

A Programme Manager needs to communicate solutions and ideas in simple and understandable language to stakeholders, as overly complex communication is likely to fail. Formulating a clear and concise message requires critical thinking, which can be aided by taking a step back from the problem at hand. This reduces the risk of overlooking something and provides an opportunity to come back with fresh eyes and a clearer mind.

In conclusion, mastering critical thinking is essential for success in the modern workplace. By developing the ability to ask important questions, challenge the status quo, and see problems from different perspectives, individuals can become more effective problem-solvers, better communicators, and more valuable members of their organizations. Whether through seeking out mentors, staying current with new technologies, or actively seeking out diverse perspectives, there are many strategies that can help individuals develop and hone their critical thinking skills. Ultimately, by embracing these strategies and remaining focused on the bigger picture, we can ensure that our efforts are always aligned with the overall goals of our organizations and that we are able to deliver successful projects in the digital age.