359: Trust and Alignment: The Real Drivers of Success with Dr. Kimberly Strickland

Stakeholder engagement serves as the primary driver of project success, with trust and alignment proving more critical than technical plans or rigid processes. When projects lose momentum, the root cause is frequently an erosion of human connections rather than inadequate tools. Dr. Kimberly Strickland, Director of the PMO at SAS Institute, introduces the Keystone Relationship Strategy (KRS) model to help leaders proactively manage these dynamics. By prioritizing intentional, informal conversations and maintaining consistent engagement—even in virtual environments—leaders can uncover hidden obstacles and ensure shared goals. Rather than relying solely on governance, effective project management requires building authentic relationships and fostering clear communication. This approach transforms stakeholder interactions from mere status updates into strategic advantages, ultimately preventing the common pitfalls of resistance and misalignment that frequently derail complex organizational initiatives.