TABLE OF CONTENTS With implementation planning already complete, activities associated with implementation and start-up can commence. The first few months of PMO operation are critical from the standpoint of ensuring that the PMO starts its operation on solid footing as well as from the standpoint of building a foundation for success in the long run. In Chapter 5, several important components of a successful implementation will be discussed, followed by a series of suggestions for ensuring a successful start-up. In addition, a section will be devoted the initial operation of the PMO that provides guidance on ensuring that the first few key months of operation are successful. Also included in this section will be guidance on planning for the next phase of PMO operations once the initial PMO goals are achieved as well as a review of practical techniques for measuring value created by the PMO.
With a firm plan in hand, resources aligned, and the necessary due diligence performed to help ensure success, implementation of a PMO in many respects should follow standard project methodology. Resources should complete work according to the implementation plan, management should be kept informed regarding progress and issues, and the implementation leader should ensure conformance to the plan and lead and direct the resources performing the work. The factor that differentiates projects in general and the specific task of implementation of a PMO is that most projects do not...
