The Virtual Project Management Office: Best Practices, Proven Methods

Successfully Launch and Operate a Virtual Project Management Office New technology and global businesses and organizations are making virtual project management offices (VPMOs) more important and more prevalent than ever. Successfully operating a VPMO requires project managers to employ additional skills and address different challenges from those necessary to operate a traditional PMO. For example, the virtual project manager must have effective soft skills to build trust among a dispersed team and to select the best forms of communication. He or she must also ensure compliance with the unique policies, procedures, and laws relevant to maintaining a VPMO. This book offers best practices for successful virtual projects and the most effective ways to create and implement a PMO in a virtual environment. It’s a valuable resource for companies considering a VPMO and those already operating one. You’ll find: - Proven implementation plans - Guidance for building a business case - Laws and ethics governing VPMOs - Tips and advice from experts Plus! Dozens of practical tools to use in launching a VPMO or improving an existing project management office.

Robert L. Gordon, DM, has been involved in managing virtual global projects for decades. He develops and delivers courses for the American Public University System, the Keller Graduate School of Management (DeVry University), and the Apollo Group in operations management, distance education, business, ethics, critical thinking, economics, and project management. He has published numerous articles on project management, project complexity, supply chain management, strategic value-added purchasing, team conflict, virtual teams, and vendor relations.
Wanda Curlee, DM, PMP, PgMP, PMI-RMP, also a veteran of establishing and running virtual project management offices, is currently a senior manager at a major consulting firm. She is a program management leader experienced in global markets, government projects, and highly complex IT, information systems, and managed services projects. She is also an adjunct instructor for Northcentral University and Kaplan University, facilitating online doctoral, graduate, and undergraduate courses in project management, critical thinking, and strategic management.