System dynamics methodology: Application in project management education

Abstract

The article offers a new approach to teaching project managers in the creative industries. The teaching method that is presented in the article is based on system dynamics modelling and the principles of project management according to the international methodology PRINCE2 and it utilizes the principle of the Earned Value Management method of the Project Management Institution organization standard. The process of designing the structure of the systemic dynamic model is part of the education of students in the subject of project management. This method allows the students to understand the importance of system thinking in project planning. The project plan as a system dynamic model is designed so that when carrying out the project students will be able to compare the actual results achieved with the planned ones. This view provides a strong argument to the project manager for the implementation of early intervention in managing the project team.