Why do IT projects feel so wrong to people with military experience?

In this episode of Project Management Is Boring, we break down why veterans instantly spot dysfunction in civilian projects—unclear objectives, fuzzy authority, missing logistics, and weak communication. What looks like “flexibility” in IT often feels like a mission with no commander’s intent, no contingency planning, and no ownership.

We compare failed projects to failed operations, unpack why veterans get frustrated in corporate environments, and show how military habits like risk awareness, clear roles, and early planning aren’t rigid—they’re exactly what modern projects need.

If you’ve ever sat in a meeting thinking, “This would never pass a brief,” this episode explains why—and why that instinct is your edge during the transition into pro ...