Alison Munn

My primary research focus lies in the evaluation, selection, and application of Project Management Methodologies (PMMs) within diverse organisational contexts. This forms the basis of my doctoral work, “A Responsive Framework for the Selection of a Project Management Methodology (PMM)”, which investigates how project managers navigate complex methodological environments, hybridisation, and organisational pressures. I am particularly interested in:

• Context‑aware and adaptive PMM selection
• Hybrid PM approaches in ICT and digital projects
• Methodology tailoring and organisational maturity
• Practitioner decision‑making under uncertainty

This work engages directly with industry practitioners and contributes to bridging the gap between formal methodologies (e.g., PRINCE2, PMBOK) and the lived realities of project teams.

Having led academic portfolios in Computing, Creative Technologies, and Engineering, I explore how emerging digital tools influence PM practice and organisational capability. Themes include:

• Digital transformation in project-based environments
• Data‑driven PM decision‑making using analytics tools (e.g., Tableau, SPSS)
• Distributed, hybrid, and technology‑enabled workforces
• Technology‑based skills development and degree apprenticeships

My extensive experience in HE leadership—spanning programme design, academic governance, TEF/QA processes, and external examining—drives research in:

• Quality assurance, academic standards, and external examining
• HE policy metrics (OfS, TEF, NSS, REF) and performance management
• Curriculum design for future‑focused PM and digital programmes
• Strategic change in university environments
• Evidence‑based leadership and organisational culture

Having led EDI initiatives, contributed to Athena Swan activity, and supported widening participation, I pursue research related to:

• Gender equity in project management and digital technology sectors
• Pathways for women into PM careers
• Inclusive curriculum and assessment design
• Cultural competence in international education and collaboration

These interests align with my international experience across Canada, Switzerland, Hong Kong, China, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Middle East.

With a strong portfolio of external engagement—including Leeds2023, Royal Armouries, industry consultancy, and employer liaison—I am committed to research that enhances university–industry synergies. Areas of focus include:

• University–industry collaboration in PM education
• Applied PM research supporting cultural, digital, and community projects
• Knowledge exchange frameworks and impact measurement
• Professional identity and capabilities of practising project managers

My work aims to strengthen the practical relevance of academic PM research while supporting industry innovation.