PROJECT MANAGEMENT TOOLKIT IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS RESEARCH

As the field of international relations becomes increasingly complex and interconnected, researchers face challenges in managing multifaceted data, diverse viewpoints, and strategic objectives. The demand for actionable and structured research outputs, such as policy papers, has led to the adoption of project management methodologies traditionally used in business and project development, optimizing international relations research workflows, improving time efficiency, and enhancing result dissemination. In recent years, the use of project management methods in international relations research has gained significant traction. Techniques such as SWOT Analysis, PESTLE Analysis, Content Analysis, and Event Analysis have become instrumental in international relations studies to manage complex projects systematically. Furthermore, tools like time tracking, priority-setting, and dependency warnings provide a structured approach to organizing and executing research tasks. This paper explores the integration of these project management methods in international relations research, particularly in the creation of policy papers – a format often employed by think tanks to convey research findings with actionable recommendations. It is highlited how international relations research can leverage project management tools to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and clarity, reflecting the increasing intersection between strategic project management and international policy-making.The integration of project management techniques in international relations research is reshaping the field by improving data management, enhancing teamwork, and producing clearer outputs. The study underscores how project management techniques streamline international relations research processes, enabling higher precision, organization, and impact in policy-making.