This article was originally published at: https://medium.com/@nadegeminois/understanding-cultural-thinking-styles-in-project-management-03f395ae78a9

As project managers, we often focus on timelines, budgets, and deliverables. But have you ever considered how your cultural background influences your thinking style? It’s not something we ponder daily, yet it plays a crucial role in how we approach problem-solving and decision-making.

Within your cultural framework, you’ve been conditioned to think in specific ways. Broadly speaking, these thinking styles can be categorized into two main types: deductive and inductive thinking. While there’s a spectrum between these styles, your cultural upbringing may predispose you to favour one over the other. However, context often dictates which style is more appropriate, and most of us can adapt when necessary.

Deductive Thinking:

Deductive thinking starts with abstract concepts and ideas, which are then applied to real-world scenarios. It allows for a comprehensive understanding of complex issues, making it a powerful tool in project management. However, it’s essential to remain grounded, as this style can sometimes lead to ideas that drift away from practical realities.

Inductive Thinking:

Conversely, inductive thinking begins with concrete facts and observations. From these, we derive rules and principles. This method ensures that our conclusions are firmly rooted in reality. However, it may not capture the full complexity of a situation, leading to oversimplified solutions.

Bridging the Gap:

In a diverse project environment, you may encounter colleagues who think differently. Deductive thinkers might find inductive approaches overly simplistic, while inductive thinkers may view deductive reasoning as too abstract. Understanding these differences is key to effective communication and collaboration.

As a project manager, recognising your thinking style and adapting to others’ can enhance stakeholder engagement and project success. How do you navigate these differences in your team? Are you able to switch between thinking styles to suit the context? Embracing this flexibility can be a significant asset in your project management toolkit.