What program managers can learn from NASA

When people think of NASA, they tend to think of the moon landings and the
enormous benefits mankind has received from the side effects of the space
program. (Think LEDs or radial tyres, artificial limbs or fire-resistant clothing.)

But there is another great benefit of NASA that you might not be aware of: better
program and project management.

NASA has always been a world leader in project and program management.
For proof, just look to the movies. Hollywood often shows NASA’s leadership in
action. See these two fine film clips for example:

• Apollo13 failure is not an option
• Apollo13 square peg in a round hole

Great project and program management not only got us to the moon but saved
lives (and got us back again).

In response, Dr. Charles Pellerin created a new methodology focused, not on
the individual, but on his or her interactions and behaviours with others. This focus
on peer assessment is what makes 4-D stand out from other methodologies such
as Myers-Briggs or Life Styles Inventory.

The 4-D program management system came out of NASA when the agency was
implementing the rectification of the Hubble Space Telescope. A root-cause
analysis showed that defect lay in leadership failures and the normalization of
deviance — not in the technology. The same issues occurred with the Challenger
disaster and the failure of the ‘O’-ring, as investigated by the great Richard
Feynman here.

It includes the following competencies:

• Creating accountability
• Establishing trust
• Challenging the client
• Creating awareness
• Communicating directly
• Listening skilfully

If this sounds like what your team needs to succeed, I encourage you to find out
more about this method.

Start your research here Introduction to 4-D systems, and check out
this site for more info: NASA 4-D site.

Happy hunting!