Recently joined a new company as PM. I've encountered some organizational politics in that one particular business stakeholder demands she be named "Co-Project Manager" on initiatives that affect her area, and wants to control responsibilities that clearly lie within my mandate. The more appropriate role is that of a subject matter expert.
This, of course, violates a major tenent of PM, i.e. centralized leadership. I can't be knocking heads with someone over who owns what when projects timelines and budgets are at stake.
Looking for any advice on how to deal with this situation in the most diplomatic way.
thx Saving Changes...
Michael WoodProject Manager / Business Analyst / Business Process Improvement Guru| Independent ContractorGig Harbor, Wa, United States
Ownership belongs to the person underwriting the effort. In the case of an organization that would be the person who's budget is being used to finance the project. If she wants ownership and the accompanying accountability then let her have it.
Managing outcomes does not require ownership.
When I was a CIO I demanded that the stakeholder always took ownership and project accountability. IT served as consultants and coaches to the process. We also provided expersts such as project managers, designers and programmers. But ultimately it was the responsibility of the owner to see that the project finished on time. Sure took the heat off of scope creep. Its amazing how the owner stops trying to negotiate for more when they are paying for it out of their budget. Of course when it came to infrastructure, IT operations and application support and change management IT was the owner. Saving Changes...
