Project Management is Problem Solving: Navigating Complexity with Rebecca Woods

In this episode of What’s the Plan?, Samantha sits down with PMO leader Rebecca Woods to discuss why modern project management is really about problem solving, strategic thinking, and navigating complexity — not just managing timelines and tasks.

Drawing from her experience leading IT and PMO initiatives, Rebecca shares practical insights on how project managers can uncover root causes, ask better questions, improve stakeholder communication, and guide teams through changing priorities, shifting requirements, and resource constraints.

Together, they explore:

• Problem solving in project management

• Continuous improvement strategies for PMOs

• How to identify the real business problem

• Why communication gaps derail projects

• Managing changing project requirements

• Strategic decision-making and stakeholder alignment

• Resource constraints, prioritization, and portfolio planning

• The human side of leadership, collaboration, and organizational change

Rebecca also shares real-world examples of navigating complex enterprise projects, balancing “keep the lights on” work with strategic initiatives and helping organizations become more adaptable in an increasingly fast-changing business environment.

Whether you're a project manager, PMO leader, operations leader, or executive navigating organizational complexity, this episode offers actionable insights into the mindset, communication skills, and strategic thinking needed to lead successful projects today.

00:00 Introduction to Rebecca Woods and Her Journey

07:27 The Importance of Problem Solving in Project Management

10:28 Understanding Customer Needs and Problem Identification

13:21 Clarifying Requirements and Asking the Right Questions

16:32 Navigating Change and Maintaining Focus on Goals

19:28 Decision-Making Frameworks and Options

22:17 Encouraging Creativity and Open Dialogue in Problem Solving

29:57 Navigating Project Challenges

32:41 Empowering Teams for Problem Solving

34:52 Effective Communication in Project Management

36:01 Continuous Improvement: Balancing Tradition and Innovation

39:50 Resource Management and Strategic Planning

44:38 Future-Proofing Skills in Project Management

46:11 Understanding Stakeholder Needs

48:42 The Importance of Practice in Problem Solving

Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccatwoods/

Presented by ProSymmetry https://www.prosymmetry.com/

Learn More About What’s the Plan? https://www.prosymmetry.com/whats-the-plan

Hosted and produced by Samantha Varner https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthavarner21/

Produced and edited by Kyle Wertz