A professor who serves as a contrast to Richard, showing a strong interest in mathematics and optimization. He contributes critical ideas that help develop the novel's project management concepts.

The president of Richard's university, who prioritizes the institution's survival and efficiency. She plays a key role in evaluating the practical application of the methods discussed in the novel.

Members of the Genemodem think tank, where Mark leads with an openness to new ideas, Ruth offers innovative thinking and questions assumptions, and Fred demands empirical proof and focuses on practicality.

Students from Richard's class, each representing different industries and perspectives, contributing to the discussion and development of project management techniques. Roger stands out for his confrontational stance, pushing Richard to validate classroom theories in real-world scenarios.