PROJECT-BASED APPROACH TO PERSONNEL UPSKILLING: INTEGRATION OF PMBOK® STANDARDS AND AGILE METHODOLOGIES TO ACHIEVE STRATEGIC BUSINESS OBJECTIVES

In the context of rapid digitalization and escalating competitive turbulence, organizations are revisiting paradigms of human capital management, establishing it as a key strategic resource. The study focuses on the challenge of improving the effectiveness of corporate learning through the methodological lens of project management. The objective is to develop and provide a theoretical and practical justification for a hybrid model for managing upskilling projects that synthesizes the structural components of the PMBOK® standard and adaptive Agile practices to maximize return on investment (ROI) and ensure strict alignment with the company’s strategic priorities. The methodological basis comprises a systematic review of academic publications and industry reports, as well as an instrumented case study grounded in empirical evidence from implemented projects. The results demonstrate that the introduction of a hybrid approach transforms the learning and development (L&D) function from a cost center into a source of measurable business value. The proposed model, which combines strategic planning and risk management (PMBOK®) with iterative and adaptive execution (Agile), provides both managerial rigor and tactical flexibility required by contemporary business conditions. The conclusions confirm that this approach not only increases the efficiency of individual educational initiatives, but also fosters a sustainable culture of continuous learning that is directly reflected in the organization’s financial and operational metrics. The presented provisions are addressed to L&D leaders, project managers, HR directors, and organizational strategy architects focused on strengthening accountability and the effectiveness of investments in employee development.