Project management as a practical tool for increasing a company's competitiveness

The results of a study of the key trends in the development of project management worldwide and in Russia are presented. The main stages in the development of project management are systematized; it has been established that the tools and methods characteristic of modern project management emerged in the 1950s, which contributed to the transformation of project management into a specific methodology. The key advantages of the project-based approach are highlighted, including clear, shared goals and objectives, realistic deadlines, quality control throughout the entire project lifecycle, transparency, and a risk-based approach that guarantee the timely completion of projects within the allocated resources and the required quality standards. As of 2025, there are 39.6 million project management specialists worldwide. The demand for personnel in this field will continue to grow, and it is predicted that by 2035, a shortage of qualified specialists may arise. This trend is primarily driven by the high rate of digital transformation, which creates a need for leaders capable of managing complex initiatives. It has been concluded that the key trends in the development of project management worldwide include: automation and the implementation of artificial intelligence, the use of hybrid methodologies, as well as cloud technologies and unified digital spaces, the broader use of software, and the development of soft skills. Artificial intelligence is finding its application in the areas of forecasting and decision making, resource management, and the automation of routine tasks. An increasing number of companies are beginning to adopt hybrid methodologies, which is due to their adaptability and responsiveness to the unique needs of each project. As project complexity increases, the demand for software rises, which is confirmed by the positive dynamics of the global software market. According to statistical data, since 2020, companies have been increasing their budgets for cloud solutions, which is also reflected in the positive dynamics of the cloud technology market. Based on the research data of ADVANTA, conclusions have been drawn about the key trends and the level of project management development in Russia, which generally correspond to global trends.