Beyond replacement: How project managers perceive the transformative role of AI in project work

Recent advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) have intensified discussions about job transformation, with growing evidence that many professional roles will be significantly affected. This paper examines the impact of analytical AI systems on project management, focusing on how data-driven, algorithmic tools influence both the quantitative and qualitative dimensions of project management activities. While existing studies often highlight the potential of AI in this domain, they frequently concentrate on generative AI or overlook project managers' own expectations regarding whether analytical AI will replace or augment their work. Using the Nominal Group Technique, this study investigates which project management activities practitioners expect to be replaced, supported, or remain unaffected by analytical AI. The findings reveal that although analytical AI is not anticipated to replace project managers, it is likely to reshape how tasks are executed. As a result, project managers will increasingly need to develop new skills and competencies to remain competitive in an AI-enhanced project environment.