The Value of Project Management Conferences Revisited
My recent experience in Tokyo

By David L. Pells

I recently had the opportunity to attend and participate in the International Project and Program Management Symposium Tokyo 2008 in Tokyo, Japan, which was sponsored by the Project Management Association of Japan (PMAJ).  It was my first visit to Japan and a very good conference.  It was an honor to be invited to present a paper there and an even greater honor to be named an international advisor for the symposium.  It was also my honor and privilege to be invited to be Master of Ceremonies for the opening session.

One year ago, my editorial in PM World Today was on the topic of “The Value of Project Management Conferences: Why they are important for Individuals, Organizations, Industry, Government and the Profession!”  Based on my recent experience in Japan, I want to revisit that topic this month and to share my own objectives, benefits and experiences from the PMAJ symposium in Tokyo.  Perhaps more personal perspective, coupled with my recent personal experiences, will help others better understand the benefits and value of PM conferences.

Personal Objectives

Of course, I had some personal objectives for attending the symposium this year in Tokyo, which might be summarized as follows:

1. To support Hiroshi Tanaka, PMAJ and the PM Profession

2. To represent PMForum and to “report the news” from Tokyo

3. To see old friends from around the PM world and renew acquaintances

4. To make new friends among other PM professional leaders

5. To share knowledge and information through my presentation

6. To gain new perspective on the status of PM in other parts of the world

7. To gain new knowledge about PM applications, methodologies or technologies

8. To meet with customers & develop potential new business

9. To identify new potential resources for PMForum

10. To increase the visibility and reputation of both myself and the organization

11. To experience Japan for the first time, learning something about the history, geography, culture and industry of the country

12. To enjoy the experience!

Referring back to the April 2007 editorial, I think these objectives relate very closely to the potential value of PM conferences for individuals that were described on the first two pages in that article.  Now let me expand on my recent experiences in Tokyo regarding the above objectives.

Read complete editorial in English