EPMOs and PMOs differ. An Enterprise Program Management Office (EPMO) office aligns strategically with the organization and provides holistic management over multiple Program Management Offices (PMOs). There is quite a bit of flexibility in how an EPMO is established, but such an organization should be chartered, supported and approved by senior management. EPMOs serve an important role in the organization, and therefore need a mission, defined responsibility (legislative responsibility) and vision.
An EPMO collects, analyzes and reports program data providing executives the ability to examine the performance of their programs at a glance. The Office tracks and reports on the performance of the organization’s key initiatives. It also provides a number of additional support functions. For example, depending on its charter, the EPMO provides overall subject matter expertise on the organization’s project methodologies, governance, training, documentation, templates, etc.
A PMO is organizationally aligned as well, but with the purpose of providing management over multiple projects. The PMO also collects and analyzes data, but at the project level, which is more specific and granular than what the EPMO reports. The PMO is more focused on providing project insights into schedule, budget, scope, risks and issues. In fact, PMOs aggregate project metrics at the program level, whereas EPMOs at the organizational level. Factors like organizational complexity play a significant role in determining whether to build out a PMO or EPMO.
Get Real Project Management can work with you to determine which Program Office best fits your needs and company culture. Our consultants are experienced, and understand corporate dynamics, the important elements that go into building out a successful project management capability, and can provide the help and support you need to create a culture of execution excellence.