Work-based challenges play a crucial role in professional development, helping students transition from theoretical learning to real-world problem-solving. According to a study by Kawana Johnson at Florida State University, experiential learning enhances problem-solving skills, adaptability, and workplace readiness. At The DaVinci Institute, we take pride in students who excel in these challenges. And one such standout is Ziphozakhe Tshambo, a Higher Certificate in Management of Technology and Innovation student. His success in a Work-Based Challenge at Axalta Plascon (Pty) Ltd showcases innovation and leadership in improving project management processes.
A Challenge Rooted in Improvement
When asked about the Work-Based Challenge he participated in, Ziphozakhe explained that his focus was on auditing project management processes to identify opportunities for improvement.
“My work-based challenge involved auditing our project management processes to discern if there were any opportunities to improve our approach to managing projects using the things I had learned from The DaVinci Institute,” he shared. “I had conducted interviews with various employees who had been a part of projects to gather information and reached my goal of identifying opportunities to improve and provide potential solutions for those issues so that we improve our potential of successfully reaching intended goals and deliverables of a project.”
His meticulous approach to gathering insights from employees and applying his academic learning enabled him to offer valuable recommendations that could enhance the effectiveness of project management at Axalta Plascon.
The Rewarding Aspects of the Challenge
Reflecting on his experience, Ziphozakhe highlighted the most exciting and rewarding parts of the challenge:
“Learning the different kinds of projects that have been done by the company and also being able to communicate with those who have been at the company for a while and gain insight from them,” he said. “Learning more about the current process for project management and being able to see some of the documentation that forms part of that process.”
Through these interactions, he was able to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, further reinforcing the value of experiential learning.
Overcoming Challenges with Innovation
While the experience was rewarding, Ziphozakhe also faced significant challenges. One of the biggest was formulating a meaningful solution that would not simply highlight problems but provide opportunities for growth.
“I did not want the presentation to be a negative report designed to simply poke holes. I wanted it to be a presentation that presented an opportunity for improvement so that we can gain more value from the current processes in place for managing projects,” he explained.
As a trainee with limited experience, coming up with a viable solution was a daunting task. However, he found support in his coursework at The DaVinci Institute.
“Reviewing my learning outcomes from the course I did at DaVinci assisted me. It was exciting to reflect on some of the valuable fundamental concepts I had learned from this course and seeing if they could be incorporated into the solution I presented.”
Growth, Learning, and a New Perspective
This challenge not only tested Ziphozakhe’s problem-solving skills but also shaped his professional outlook.
“The challenge helped me to see the importance of organisation. It helped me see why an organised and documented approach to solving issues or managing projects is necessary to make good progress,” he said. “Challenges vary in size and sometimes you can get away with solving problems without much of an organised approach, but that only works for so long. It helps to have a tried and tested plan.”
This experience has reinforced the necessity of structured problem-solving, a skill he will undoubtedly carry forward in his career.
Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations
Ziphozakhe’s passion for project management has only grown stronger through this experience, and he is eager to build on this foundation.
“I enjoyed learning about project management, and I would like to learn more and actually see the concepts I learned applied in real-life project management,” he said. “So now that I am in IT, I would love to shadow and monitor the management of a project by an experienced project manager so that I can learn more practically how these concepts can be applied and how they contribute to the progress and success of a project.”
He is already taking proactive steps towards this goal by coordinating a project within his company and incorporating what he has learned.
A Bright Future Ahead
Ziphozakhe Tshambo’s success in his Work-Based Challenge exemplifies the impact of The DaVinci Institute’s approach to learning—one that integrates academic theory with practical application to drive real change in businesses. His commitment to continuous learning and improvement is an inspiration to his peers and a testament to the transformative power of education.
As he continues his journey in project management, we look forward to witnessing his future achievements and contributions to the industry.