The first step in the process of establishing a PMO within an organization is to gain an understanding of the current project management culture, practices, and challenges through an analysis of the organization s project management practices. This analysis serves as the basis for development of a base business case that outlines for management the challenges facing the organization as well as opportunities in which the PMO concept can be put to use to improve project management practices and results within the organization. Once the base business case is reviewed by management and approved, the next step will be to chart a course for successful development of a detailed business case and PMO implementation plan.

Chapter 3 will discuss the process of developing a detailed business case for a PMO and will address a number of practical considerations that must be addressed as part of developing a detailed plan. Chapter 3 will also conclude in a similar manner to Chapter 1, with a detailed presentation to management that focuses on securing approval to commence with PMO start-up and operation, but first, Chapter 2 will describe several essential PMO models and their functions.