Outsource WHAT?!

  PMO   Portfolio Management  

Before we discuss outsourcing the project management function, a few definitions are needed.

There needs to be a clear distinction between a project coordinator, a project manager and a program manager. For the most part, a project coordinator schedules conference calls and meetings, usually at someone else's request. During the meetings, the coordinator usually does not actively participate in the discussion but records action items, decisions and next steps. Outside of meetings, they may follow up on issues and track progress against the plan. The coordinator function is valuable from an administrative project management viewpoint.

A project manager will either have a project coordinator assigned to the project or will perform the roles of a coordinator in addition to other tasks. He or she usually carries some weight in decision-making and is expected to be knowledgeable about both business and technology. The project manager is also responsible for facilitating meetings and ensuring the discussions are kept on track and will actively take part in the discussions. Outside of meetings, they build relationships with the customers, sponsors, stakeholders and other team members. They are the ultimate contact people for just about everything related to the project. If someone is not sure where to take a particular issue or question, they can always rely on the project …

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