In this article, we'll focus on the 5 essential roles the PMO can play in successful project management. In an organization where project management must be a success, the PMO's (Project Management Officer) missions are paramount. They support and, above all, improve the management of projects, programs or portfolios.
To find out more before you continue, don't hesitate to watch our Youtube video with our expert Guillaume RAOUL: What's a PMO? Project management office VS Project management officer or read our article on Project management office VS Project management officer.
Key role 1: the PMO is the project manager's right-hand man
First and foremost, the PMO provides direct assistance to the project manager. He is clearly categorized as his right-hand man. He assists him in all technical aspects of the project. The PMO also assists the project manager in relations with the team, with all contributors, i.e. with all stakeholders involved in the project. They form an indivisible pair, ensuring smooth project management. See also our article on the difference between a PMO and an AMOA.
Key role 2: PMO manages project management methodology
His second main role is methodological. It harmonizes and reinforces all project, portfolio and program management methods within an organization. By communicating these best practices, he or she contributes to strengthening the organization's overall capacity and skills in these areas.
Key role 3: The PMO is the guarantor of risk management
In general, there are many uncertainties to be managed in a project, program or portfolio. The PMO's expertise will therefore enable the most effective risk management possible to ensure the success of the project.
Key role 4: The PMO steers the success of the project
In addition to the uncertainty, methodological and organizational aspects, we can also talk about the analysis of the results of a project, program or portfolio. Indeed, the PMO will have a complete analysis and precision on these results, thanks to indicators such as KPIs or OKRs. And it's thanks to these indicators that we can see the progress, success or failure of a project.
Essential role 5: the PMO can be the team's trainer
5th and final role, the PMO can effectively contribute to the skills development and training of a group of people if there is a need within an organization. They can provide day-to-day support and coaching to the people they work with. For example, in the implementation of a new management method, or in the development of new indicators that are better adapted to certain company contexts.
To sum up, the PMO has 5 essential roles: organizational, relational, methodological, analytical and coaching. He coordinates all his skills to ensure the success and smooth running of a project, program or portfolio, and for all the teams involved.
To find out more, take a look at our Youtube video with our expert Guillaume RAOUL, who also explains : The 5 essential roles of the PMO revealed! and read our article on PMO methods and tools.
