AI isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s a real productivity booster for project managers who know how to use it. Whether you’re streamlining workflows or making data-driven decisions, AI can take your PM game to the next level. Here are three practical tips to help you master AI in your project management practice:
1. Start Small: Use AI for Routine Tasks
Begin by automating low-risk, repetitive tasks—like meeting scheduling, status reporting, or data extraction from documents. Tools like Microsoft Copilot, Notion AI, and ChatGPT can draft emails, summarize meeting notes, or even build a RACI chart. These quick wins will free up your time for more strategic work while helping your team build confidence with AI tools.
2. Train Your AI Like You’d Train a Team Member
Treat AI like a junior team member: the more context and clear input you give it, the better the output. For example, when prompting a chatbot to create a project plan, include key constraints, deadlines, and stakeholders. Over time, you’ll learn how to “speak AI”—giving it the structure and detail it needs to be truly helpful.
3. Make AI Part of Your Risk Management Strategy
AI tools are powerful, but not perfect. Use them to enhance your risk assessments and scenario planning, but always validate outputs with your expertise and team insights. Keep a human in the loop to avoid blind spots, and document how AI recommendations are factored into decisions—this helps with transparency and stakeholder trust.
Final Thought:
AI won’t replace project managers—but project managers who know how to use AI will replace those who don’t. Start small, learn fast, and bring your team along for the journey.
