Business Environment Interface Concepts

Early project management information systems were influential in information exchange and communication within the project management environment. The PMO's knowledge management function introduces new capability that improves upon and expands that influence throughout the relevant organization while still maintaining the essential information needed within the project management environment. Knowledge management recognizes the organization's project information needs and drives the development of a solution that integrates project information with business interests. When this capability is implemented, the interactions between business units and individuals in the project management environment become more efficient and effective.

Individuals and business units that were previously unaware that they were project stakeholders will now be able to access the project knowledge management system for their own business purposes. Indeed, it is quite likely that any required project information will now be exchanged with routine efficiency.

Business units, in particular, that have interactions with customers, vendors, and contractors will gain more information and insight into these relationships. For example, business managers responsible for sales will be able to examine project performance and customer satisfaction; resource managers responsible for project team members will be able to review resource commitments; and senior managers responsible for business performance will be able to determine progress toward achieving strategic objectives.

The information and knowledge management tools needed in the business environment are essentially the same as those described above for the project management environment. Some additional packaging, data calculation and compilation, and distribution methods — usually by electronic means — may be all that is necessary to provide benefits to the business environment.