Insights and inspiration for project professionals

A couple of weeks ago, we organized a unique teambuilding event with the trainers from my Academic & Educational Outreach (AEO) team for the Project Management trainings we offer in partnership with VDAB. Rather than opting for a traditional dinner, we chose an activity that put our project management knowledge into practice—a live cooking workshop.

  

Under the guidance of Renate from De Plek in Aalst, we rolled up our sleeves and tackled a culinary challenge: preparing a full Scandinavian-themed menu together, including starters, appetizers, a main course, and dessert. But this was more than just cooking—it was project management in action.

  

 

We approached the evening just like a real project:

• Scope: Defined by the recipe
• Schedule: Coordinating different cooking times so each dish was ready at the right moment
• Cost: Covered and managed in advance
• Quality: Tasted and adjusted throughout—commissioning never tasted so good
• Resources: We discovered each other’s hidden talents along the way
• Communication: Collaboration was essential to getting everything ready on time
• Risk Management: Trusting the process, and adapting as needed
• Procurement: Consulting regularly with our ‘sponsor’ and guide, head chef Renate
• Stakeholders: Chef Renate and the entire cooking team

It was a fun, delicious, and surprisingly educational evening that reminded us how project management principles can apply in all kinds of contexts. This time, we learned through laughter, teamwork, and the joy of a shared meal.

  

 

Geert Cloostermans
Director of Academic & Educational Outreach (NL), PMI Belgium