Well-Acted, Poorly Directed: A Case Study in Organizational Resistance (In-Person CMM)

Power Skills
Ways of Working

A high-profile theater remodel in the heart of Hollywood was a textbook example of strong project execution that, despite early success, unraveled. In Well-Acted, Poorly Directed, William Steele unpacks how political infighting, institutional inertia, and a culture resistant to change ultimately sidelined a promising initiative. This case study explores how even highly successful projects can fail when leadership falters, factions form, and organizations refuse to evolve. It's a cautionary tale and a call to action for project managers navigating complex stakeholder environments.

Learning Objectives:

*Recognizing and Assessing Organizational Culture as Project Risk
*Mapping Stakeholders Past, Present, and Future
*Applying Communication Strategies for Challenging Political Environments

Speakers

William Steele

William Steele
William Steele, PMP, has a diverse background spanning military service, civic engagement, and higher education. He has led a range of efforts including historic building renovations and academic program start-ups. In recent years, he has led politically engaged initiatives in Lawrence, Kansas, focused on environmental sustainability, land use policy, and public accountability. He is interested in how failure, when examined honestly, can be a tool for learning and better project outcomes.
Register for this event
Register for this event

Information

Type of category: Chapter Member Meeting (CMM)

Type of activity: Power Skills, Ways of Working

Date: August 20th, 2025

Hour: 6:30PM to 8:00PM

Registration close date: August 20th, 2025 at 7:00PM

# of PDUs: 1

Price

Students: $5.00

Members $15.00

Non members and Guests: $25.00

Location

TBD