Run a PMO Reality Check

  PMO   Strategy   ProjectsAtWork  

A PMO’s mandate is not set in stone. As the needs, objectives and expectations of an organization change, the PMO mandate must also shift to reflect these new realities. Here are three ways that program/portfolio management leaders can help make sure the PMO maintains its relevancy.

Even project management offices (PMOs) that consistently provide a successful project, program and portfolio function will, over time, accumulate tasks and responsibilities that were not originally intended. That's why program and portfolio management (PPM) leaders need to run occasional "reality checks" to ensure the PMO hasn't lost sight of its mandate, according to Lars Mieritz, research vice president at Gartner.

"Typically, senior management issues a mandate for a PMO when it is first set up. As business conditions change over time, however, the organization's needs, objectives and expectations may also shift," Mireitz said. "The PMO's mandate must also shift to reflect those changes. Otherwise, misunderstandings and gaps will arise due to clashes among assumptions, expectations and realities." 

Mieritz outlined three ways to respond to these challenges and ensure continued PMO relevancy: 

1. Protect the PMO function and relevancy through annual reviews and updates of the PMO mandate to ensure alignment with organizational goals.…

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