What is the purpose of a project management office?

The purpose of a project management office (PMO) primarily lies in its role to standardize project-related governance processes. By establishing a framework and set of practices for project management, the PMO ensures that all projects within an organization are executed consistently, aligning with the organization's strategic goals. This standardization helps improve efficiency, enhances communication, and fosters best practices across various projects.

While managing projects is a function of some PMOs, their broader remit encompasses more than just managing individual projects. Additionally, while financial oversight might be a component of a specific PMO's responsibilities, it is not the central purpose. The overarching goal of a PMO is to create a cohesive strategy for governance, which involves developing methods, templates, and processes that managers and teams can use to ensure project success. Ultimately, by focusing on governance processes, a PMO provides value that extends to the entire organizational structure, optimizing resource use and stakeholder engagement.