Specifics of entry-level IT project managers in Eastern Europe

In IT outsourcing efficient collaboration between the customer on the one hand and the project manager of the IT vendor company on the other hand is a critical factor for success. Often customers from Western Europe or United States try building collaboration with IT vendors in Eastern Europe without taking into account specifics of the project managers´ mentality and cultural differences. This leads to confusion, miscommunication and missed expectations. Some authors have researched specifics of management in Russia in comparison to western management style. In this paper we outline the specifics of IT-related management practices and entry-level project managers from Eastern European countries such as Russia, Belarus and/or Ukraine. Understanding these specifics prevents many conflicts between customers and managers. We suggest methodology that allows customers and IT companies to evaluate project managers´ performance objectively using 5 criteria. This methodology allows customers to set realistic expectations about the management process and to have better control over it. The evaluation also allows IT vendors to proactively monitor the performance of their project managers and take corrective actions when necessary.