Strategic alignment and project management offices: case studies from successful implementations in Turkey

Abstract

Due to an increased need for learning modern project management methodologies, companies have been forced to improve their knowledge of Project Management Offices (PMO). Global business environment resulted with increased importance of project management methodologies, aligned with competitive strategies. Today, many organizations have recognized the importance of implementing PMO's for effective project control and better stakeholder (executives) support for projects. PMOs also undertake strategic roles such as incorporating higher management support to achieve strategic goals, integrating business strategies into project management efforts, and prioritization of projects. This paper examines PMOs in the process of strategic alignment. Moreover, the contribution of PMOs to achieve strategic goals is explored. Our initial findings are promising represented in a framework, and demonstrated by a case study application review using IT and telecommunication companies selected from Turkey. The research offers future directions and implications of a well-established successful PMO system.