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P3O? … Sometimes I love the British

In our regions, project management is a strict discipline, often complicated by a scientific systematology. How I appreciate British approaches. They are also systematic, but pragmatically systematic.

Portfolio, - programme- and project-offices

Let me give you a high-level overview of the different functions and services

PLANNING = Portfolio Office

  • Portfolio build, prioritization, analysis and reporting
  • Programme and project set-up and closure
  • Stakeholder engagement and communications
  • Planning and estimating
  • Capacity Planning and ressource management
  • Performance monitoring

DELIVERY = Programme and Project Office

  • Planning and estimating
  • Monitor and review
  • Reporting
  • Risik management
  • Issue management
  • Change control
  • Finance
  • Commercial (including supplier management)
  • Quality assurance
  • Information management (including configuration and asset management)
  • Transition management
  • Secretariat

CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

  • Standards and methods (processes and tools)
  • Interal consultancy
  • Organizationales learning and knowledge management
  • People and skills (PPM competencies)

It can be that easy, systematic and pragmatic. One can work with this distinction. A simple structure does not explain every detail, but it takes us several steps forward in practice.

Source: AXELOS: P3O Portfolio, Programme and Project Office, 3rd Imprint, TSO 2020