Business Environment Interface Concepts

Inasmuch as the PMO itself functions as an integrator for the organization, the project management methodology is a central mechanism for project and business integration. A prominent aspect of integration is using a common process across business functions. This is enhanced when each business unit adapts and incorporates its technical and business processes to fit within the methodology. This is an important concept. Once a methodology is set into place, business units having specific functional or technical areas can no longer practice old behaviors that may misalign with or be counterproductive to the project management methodology. To that end, each business unit should conform to the approved organizational standards of project management as it continues to apply essential best practices that produce the desired technical and business results.

The project management methodology provides a foundation for work accomplished across business units, including facilitation of cross-functional resource assignments. A well-conceived, well-collaborated, and properly implemented project management methodology will ensure accomplishment of all critical project management actions.

Another feature of using a standard project management methodology is that it promotes effective project collaboration and reporting within the relevant organization. A coordinated approach to project management facilitates common data collection and distribution. The result of using such a project management methodology is that project progress and performance information can be compiled and aggregated to facilitate business decisions across projects and across the organization.