The report is PMI's third thought leadership report on the role of generative AI (GenAI) in project management.

In the first report “First Movers' Advantage” (Benefits of Adopting Generative AI for Project Management | PMI), two central groups of GenAI users in project management were identified: Trailblazers and Explorers. The study showed that Trailblazers were not only able to automate routine tasks through the use of GenAI, but were also able to improve complex tasks such as risk management and decision-making - with positive effects on productivity, creativity and problem-solving skills.

The second report, “Pushing the Limits“ (Pushing the Limits: Transforming Project Management with Generative AI Innovation | PMI) expanded on these findings and identified project tasks with particularly high potential benefits from GenAI. This revealed a natural progression from automating simple tasks to supporting complex project management processes - with rapid efficiency gains and long-term transformation effects.

The new report shows how project managers can use GenAI to achieve real transformation rather than just efficiency gains through targeted skills development and a learning-oriented approach.

Key findings:

• Quick wins are not enough: Many project managers achieve initial productivity gains (2-3x) through simple GenAI usage such as summaries or research. More is needed for real transformation.

• Two decisive success factors:
  
  • Professional and technical preparation: technical skills + PM expertise + domain knowledge
  • Initiative: Curiosity, willingness to learn, active experimentation

• Trailblazer vs. Explorer: Trailblazers (GenAI in >50% of projects) achieve 8x higher acceptance and 16x higher productivity compared to Explorers (1-15% use).

• Individual learning is crucial: Self-directed learning (e.g. online courses, experiments) is the key driver for GenAI competence - often more important than formal training.

• Organizations must provide support: Structural support through governance, learning opportunities and freedom increases impact - and keeps talent in the company.

Discover now how GenAI can be integrated into project management for sustainable project success The Project Professionals GenAI Journey