Arizona Project Management Summit 2026

SESSION OVERVIEW:
This interactive session will introduce participants to the 8 Core Drives of the Octalysis Framework (Chou, 2014), a leading model in gamification. Next, participants will work in groups to select a project management challenge, identify a desired behavior or action, and brainstorm solutions using gamification techniques to achieve the desired outcome. The session will culminate with each group sharing their solutions with the broader audience, fostering a collaborative and engaging learning environment.

SESSION STRUCTURE:
(1) Introduction
- Welcome
- Session Objectives

(2) Overview of the Octalysis Framework (Chou, 2014)
- Core Drive 1: Epic Meaning & Calling
- Core Drive 2: Development & Accomplishment
- Core Drive 3: Empowerment of Creativity & Feedback
- Core Drive 4: Ownership & Possession
- Core Drive 5: Social Influence & Relatedness
- Core Drive 6: Scarcity & Impatience
- Core Drive 7: Unpredictability & Curiosity
- Core Drive 8: Loss & Avoidance
- Extrinsic / Intrinsic Drives
- White Hat vs. Black Hat Gamification
- Examples of Workplace Gamification

(3) Group Activity Setup
- Formation of groups (4-6 participants per group)
- Instructions for the group activity
- Distribution of Octalysis framework and technique cards

(4) Group Activity
- Each group identifies one project management challenge and a desired outcome
- Groups use the Octalysis Framework and gamification technique cards to brainstorm solutions to achieve the desired outcome

(5) Group Activity Share Out
- Each group presents their challenge and strategic solution(s) to the audience

(6) Conclusion
- Recap of key learnings
- Q&A discussion
- Closing remarks

BENEFITS & OUTCOMES:
Participants will gain an understanding of the Octalysis Framework and learn how to harness the power of the 8 Core Drives to enhance workplace motivation. Through a hands-on group activity, attendees will develop creative problem-solving skills and learn how to apply gamification techniques to increase motivation and engagement. Additionally, participants will have the opportunity to network with peers during group activities and discussions. Attendees will leave with practical gamification strategies that can be immediately implemented in their project management practices to drive motivation, engagement, and productivity.