The PMO provides guidance and structure to the execution of projects.

Let's take
a look at some of the specific ways it achieves this.

A Project Management Office (also called PMO), is an office or department within an

organization that defines and maintains standards for project management. The Project
Management Office provides guidance and standards in the execution of projects. They
create tangible goals, aligned with the overall organization's vision, and ensure all
targets are met.

Guidance comes in the forms of project templates, standardized processes, and

education and methodology recommendations. Think of the PMO as your project
support - they sit in the middle of a project team, offering structure and assistance.
That said, it's worth noting that PMOs aren't compulsory for project management. If
you're a small operation, for instance, you may be able to manage without a Project
Management Office.
But, if your organization runs multiple cross-functional projects (for example, several
projects with interdependencies or projects involving different departments) at the same
time, then you should consider implementing the role in your business.
So, why are PMOs so necessary?

Take a look at these 5 compelling benefits:

1. Increased transparency and visibility into your team and resource capacity needs,
which can help to limit information silos and miscommunications.
2. Better project maturity, quality, accountability and democratization, ultimately
keeping more of your projects on-time and your team on the same page.
3. Closer alignment with the C-level, particularly in regards to organizational goals, in
turn helping to direct and prioritize projects.
4. Accurate and aligned budget and resourcing allocation, which can help to satisfy
executives and keep the overall project portfolio in check.
5. A reduction in project failure, overspending and client dissatisfaction through
standardized templates and tools, and continual monitoring.
It's no wonder, then, that 80% of high-performing companies have at least one PMO.
They're essential for driving projects forward.
Modern PMOs aren’t the cat-herding managers of the past, but they’re also not the
long-haired, laid-back gurus that are more suited to yoga studios than business
presentations. A successful PMO that can operate within today’s agile business world
sits somewhere in the middle of those two extremes.

A good PMO should:

 Have a deep understanding of your organization’s strategy, culture, and customers.

 Bridge the gap between the company’s primary stakeholders, customers, and the
teams working on the projects.

The best, most agile project management offices will:

 Shift with adaptations of strategy to align itself with the changing world.
 Act as mentors for project managers and team members to provide oversight and
insight into the reasons behind the decisions.
 Embrace the importance of helping staff understand why changes should be made
so they can make informed decisions when they encounter obstacles.

Thank you.
Ahmed Ali