Introduction to PMO Types and Responsibilities

Overview of the Learning Series

• Dr. Walker introduces the Global PMO Solutions Learning Series, aimed at educating on various business areas including PMO, project portfolio management, and change management.

• This episode focuses on different types of PMOs, their authority, roles, and responsibilities.

Types of PMOs

Basic PMO

• A basic PMO supports a single complex project (e.g., ERP implementation), managing planning, costs, timelines, and resources at the project level.

Functional or Departmental PMO

• Typically located at the organizational level; it may report to departments like finance or IT. It integrates resources across functions within a department.

Enterprise Corporate or Global PMO

• Focuses on servicing the entire organization with an emphasis on corporate strategic alignment and project portfolio management.

Detailed Structure of Different PMOs

Basic Structure of a Basic PMO

• Supports complex projects by developing standards and procedures while providing dashboards and reports on project health.

Functional/Departmental PMO Characteristics

• Coordinates project management activities across departments; can vary in size from small teams to large departmental support structures.

Enterprise PMO Functions

• Directly manages all project managers within an organization; responsible for career development and training needs for project managers.

Models of Enterprise PMOs

Reporting Structures in Enterprise PMOs

• The first model shows a reporting structure through strategy executives; larger organizations may have multiple managers overseeing different functions.

Executive-Level Reporting Model

• In some organizations, the enterprise PMO reports directly to C-level executives (CIO), separating its focus from traditional PPM roles while still aligning with corporate strategy.

Internal vs External Facing PMOs

Internal Organizational Structures

• Discusses centralized versus decentralized models where a single governing body oversees all projects or each region has its own coordinating body.

Authority Levels in Different Types of PMOs

Understanding the Role of PMO in Methodology and Knowledge Management

Establishing Processes and Training Staff

• The PMO (Project Management Office) is responsible for establishing processes and supporting methodologies, which may vary based on the organization's needs.

• Training provided by the PMO includes various methodologies tailored to enhance staff capabilities within the organization.

Knowledge Management and Documentation

• The PMO establishes a knowledge management system that serves as a repository for all project types, similar to consulting-type PMOs.

• A documentation library is created to facilitate project knowledge sharing among staff, enhancing collaboration and learning from past projects.

Compliance and Performance Assessment

• In compliance-oriented PMOs, there is an emphasis on standardizing processes and assessing individual performance through established development plans.

• These PMOs monitor delivery expectations, interactions, and overall performance of project teams to ensure adherence to standards.

Governance and Reporting Mechanisms

• Executive governance is facilitated by the PMO, which sets expectations for project delivery cadence while monitoring performance at various levels (project, program, portfolio).