Insights and inspiration for project professionals

Project management in 2025 is marked by rapid adoption of new technologies, evolving work models, and an increased emphasis on sustainability and people-centered leadership.

As  a program and project manager working in Belgium, I see the following trends shaping our profession today:

Digital Transformation and AI

AI-driven tools are transforming planning, execution, and decision-making. Predictive analytics, automation of admin  tasks, and real-time dashboards are increasingly replacing spreadsheets for progress and risk monitoring.

Evolving Methodologies and Hybrid Work

Hybrid approaches that blend agile and traditional methods are now the standard, tailored to the needs of each project.  Remote and hybrid work models require strong digital communication skills and flexible management practices.

ESG and Sustainability Focus

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria are now central to project planning. Projects aim not only to deliver value but also to minimize environmental impact and strengthen responsible business practices, reflecting the greater reality of cross-team / department projects that create a smoother roll out of projects, bigger successes and innovative solutions, thus broadening the companies' horizons.

Power Skills and Leadership

Complexity = a need for a stronger skill set which can be translated into the demand for emotional intelligence, stakeholder communication, and resilience. Leaders are expected to and evaluated on their ability to foster adaptability, purpose, and well-being within their teams.

 

All of these themes will be explored at the upcoming PMI BeNeLux Summit 2025 in Maastricht on October 10, and I strongly encourage you to join us there.

 

PMBOK Guide and the Future of PMI Certification

The PMBOK Guide is also undergoing significant change in its upcoming 8th Edition (expected in December 2025). These updates aim to make the guide more practical, flexible, and aligned with today’s project environment. Highlights include:

1. Return to Processes: Around 40 key processes reintroduced, updated for contemporary practice.
2. Streamlined Principles: Reduced to six for clarity and daily use.
3. AI, Agile, and Hybrid Guidance: New sections on digital tools and ethical considerations.
4. Sustainability and Value Delivery: Making benefits and long-term value central.
5. Flexible Practices: Greater emphasis on adaptability to context.
6. Focus on People and Teams: Diversity, well-being, and resilience integrated into the guide.
7. Technology Integration: Predictive analytics and automation reflected in the guidance.

Thank you to all the PMs who took the time to their perspectives and experiences and therefore actively supported the creation of PMBOK 8^th edition, that will shape and positively impact the work of PMs on a global scale.

 

Piotr Zamisnii
Director of Sponsorship, PMI Belgium Chapter
sponsorship@pmi-belgium.be