Podcast Episode 20: The Story of WIC's Founding

From Freelancing to Starting a Business

The idea for WIC developed step by step. There wasn’t a single “aha moment” - rather, the desire to make project management more professional in the long term gradually grew. Both recognized the enormous potential of clear structure, accountability, and a methodical approach.

Yet the start was anything but glamorous: The first “office” was a former storage room in the attic - with summer temperatures of 36 to 40 degrees and very little space. But it was precisely this early period that shaped the two founders’ entrepreneurial spirit in particular.

Challenges, Lessons Learned, and the Courage to Take Responsibility

Entrepreneurship is hard work – they both agree on that. Still, their project management skills have helped them immensely: working in a structured way, quickly getting up to speed on new topics, and consistently taking on responsibility. They had almost no doubts – but plenty of respect for new areas like taxes, legal matters, and building a team.

A PARTICULARLY IMPORTANT LESSON FROM THE STARTUP PHASE:
Starting a business never ends. Structures change, processes need to be adapted, and the company is constantly evolving.

Why WIC? Vision, Mission & Values

The motivation behind the company’s founding is clear: to help businesses make their project management more professional, efficient, and successful.

Many organizations underestimate the complexity of projects - or simply pass them on to line managers as an additional task. This is exactly where WIC comes in: with expertise, hands-on implementation, and real support - not just PowerPoint presentations.

WIC combines consulting, operational project work, and technical know-how - a combination that is largely unique in the market.

THE GOAL IS ALWAYS THE SAME:
To drive projects to success - on schedule, within budget, and at the highest professional standard.

OUR MISSION

What defines a strong Project Management Team

The two place particular focus on the following when building their team:

• Willingness over ability: Motivation and a sense of responsibility are more important than a perfect resume.
• Independence: Good PMs don’t just manage—they actively drive initiatives forward and take ownership.
• Communication on equal terms: With stakeholders at all levels of the hierarchy.
• Commitment: The determination to truly make projects a success.

And the most important difference between good and great project managers?
Good ones drive things forward - great ones also think ahead and are always one step ahead of potential problems.

Tips for future Project Managers

For anyone looking to get into project management, Jana and Tobias offer the following recommendations:

• Start small and learn the basics.
• Understand business processes—projects never exist in isolation.
• Learn by doing, not just through theory.
• Be bold and take responsibility.

One tip that Jana particularly emphasizes:
Never underestimate the power of individual stakeholders—no matter what level of the hierarchy they’re at.

Conclusion

This personal episode shows the passion, courage, and perseverance that went into founding WIC. Jana and Tobias offer an authentic insight into their journey and share valuable lessons for project managers, founders, and anyone interested in professional project management.