Good PMO

Most PMOs either fail to be fully implemented or get reconfigured after 1 or 2 years (Hobbs PMO whitepaper). In a changing/dynamic environment, companies want to see results fast, and would not want to invest long terms in a new PMO unless value is clear.

If you are starting or reconfiguring a PMO, think small and focus on some real value deliverable. Ask PMs and senior managers what is their top issue. Is it a set of standard templates? Assistance with planning and scheduling? Need to have visibility of projects progress and deviations? Be clear and specific, agree deliverables with the PMs/management, and commit to deliver something specific (templates, training session, dashbaord tool, etc) in a short timeframe (3 to 6 months max)

Once people see the PMO actually addressing their needs and meeting their commitments, the PMO will be perceived as something of value and worth of further investment. Small incremental steps reduce the risk of failure when implementing PMOs.