Alejandro Guerra NochezPMO Project Manager| Corporación Multi InversionesGuatemala, Guatemala
your company's PMO manages different kind projects: mainly ERP implementation, M&As, HR Projects, logistics optimization. One of the organization's manufacturing plants is running below standard and the C-suite has nominated a 20 year plant manager as PM. they told him "fix it. the PMO will help you with PM methodology"
Should this SME be brought in to help write the business case and then let the Pros manage de project? or do you help him every step of the way as an "accidental PM"?
thanks for sharing your opinions. Saving Changes...
no I am not certain that a technical expert is incapable of doing an outstanding job as PM. he might very well do so. My question is, if it were up to you, right now, would you:
a) have the Subject Matter Expert help write the business case and provide expert judgment throughout the project, while the PMO plans and executes, manages change, etc.
or
b) have a SME lead the project , and PMO as support. providing healthy practices, mentoring and/or coaching?
in either case we will work together and make our best effort to complete the project successfully. I just wanted to read some opinions based on experience.
For example, in your experience, is a hybrid PM really able to commit 100% to the project? or will he have a tendency to also keep track of his permanent job?
If it were to me, I'd go for (b). A very proactive PMO.
I have a little different experience. I joined a project where the teams were deep into execution. They took their time to see how I perform and eventually we achieved a lot. There was no commotion.
As for his commitment to project and tracking of his permanent job; that depends whether he is required to keep track of operations or not. Saving Changes...
Harpreet SethiProgram Manager| Sapient CorpHouston, Tx, United States
I would again emphasize on willingness of the person taking up that role. As i mentioned earlier there is no harm in people playing hybrid roles in fact it is the latest trend these days. If there is a willingness half the battle is already won. PMO is anyway there to guide so I would take that chance.
Another factor that we can ponder upon is the type of issue that plant is facing. Is it more technical in nature or there are organizational issue that is causing plant to run below standard? If it is latter then definitely you need someone with management experience as in this scenario we need a person who can manage those organizational factors. If its former then definitely a person with technical background can resolve it and all he needs is oversight from PMO to make sure he is managing it well. Who knows this person shines out as a great PM in future All the best with whatever decision you take Saving Changes...
I would go with A, but it should really depend on the SME's preference and comfort level, as he is the most important contributor to the success of this initiative Saving Changes...
