Senior Vice President of People Development Andria McCollough from Truity Credit Union in Bartlesville, Okla., highlighted the positive impact of involving employees in project management teams. McCollough noted a 63% better retention rate for staff involved in project teams compared to those who were not, emphasizing the success story of engaging people in the process. The credit union has run 106 teams since 2008, with 254 employees participating and gaining valuable skills that have increased their engagement and desire to stay with the organization.
At America’s Credit Unions’ 2024 HR & Organizational Development Council Conference, McCollough and BCU Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer Lisa Baron shared insights into how project management teams have enhanced cross-departmental appreciation and decision-making processes within their organizations. Baron emphasized the importance of considering different voices and perspectives in decision-making, which has led to increased buy-in from employees.
Baron also mentioned how BCU was pushed into project management when they lost their healthcare provider, forcing them to build new systems and benefits. This shift necessitated involving employees in decision-making, leading to the discovery of new leaders and skill development opportunities throughout the organization.
Both Truity and BCU have seen participants in project management teams develop a range of skills, including research and implementation, public speaking, leadership, time management, organization, and dealing with ambiguity. These skills not only benefit the individuals involved but also contribute to process improvement, efficiency, and a positive organizational culture.
Key takeaways from the success of project management teams at Truity and BCU include the importance of generating excitement, focusing on people development as much as task completion, prioritizing communication, celebrating achievements, overcoming the initial challenges of implementation, embedding project management in the organizational culture, considering stakeholder feedback, and building employee resumes through skill-building opportunities.
The collaborative approach to project management has proven to be a driving force behind the success of Truity Credit Union and BCU, showcasing the value of involving employees in decision-making processes and skill development initiatives.