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This second edition is part of a book series from AIPMO that is built on a consistent set of frameworks and concepts. Since the initial release of this book in 2017, PMO services have been formalized and comprehensively described, which has contributed another piece to the PMO puzzle on how to design, build, and operate one or more PMOs.
The updated edition includes the original PMO principles and now provides context on how principles are linked to codes of behavior, culture, values, and bias. PMO services principles and PMO service domain principles have been added. The PMO services principles are described for each of the phases in the PMO services lifecycle framework. The PMO service domain principles are aligned to the PMO service domains described in AIPMO’s PMO Services and Capabilities book, published in May 2022. A method for selecting and applying various types of principle (PMO principles, PMO domain principles, and PMO services principles) has been tested on the biggest megaproject in the world and included in this book.
The book is professionally published with a visually appealing layout. The cover design is good, yet there’s room for improvement to better encapsulate the book’s subject matter. The balanced use of the different shades of green and pink to highlight section headings, page numbers, and table borders and the proper use of white spaces in each page facilitate swift and effortless engagement with the text. The paper quality is good and the book is lightweight and easy to carry along. Formatted consistently and optimized for Kindle, the book facilitates a smooth and captivating reading journey across various platforms.
The book is well structured and follows a logical sequence to deliver the message to the reader of how to apply a set of principles at the three levels of PMO, services and services domains.
The book provides clear definitions of key terms such as PMO, value, ethics, culture, and more, before delving into the details of each topic. This approach enhances reader comprehension and facilitates better understanding. The book maintains reader engagement through its appropriate language and compelling content, ensuring a consistent level of interest as readers eagerly progress through its pages. Overall, the book captures the reader’s interest, although occasional dull moments occur.
The book is written to solve real-world scenarios. It combines theory with practice by describing what a principle is and providing a recommended list of principles that should be applied while designing a PMO and at each stage of the services lifecycle. For each of the 7 core principles, the book provides a description of the principle and the impact it creates on the PMO (with a clear example of how each could contribute to the resolution of an organization’s pain points and challenges). The book then details approaches on how to select the right, most impactful principles for any given PMO. It enriches professional practice with innovative solutions and aids decision-making with clear, applicable advice. Additionally, it provides robust, effective solutions for solving relevant problems.
The book is the second edition of the original PMO Principles book. This second edition is the first to introduce the concepts of “services principles” and “service domain principles” and to define principles for each of the services lifecycle stages and for each of the service domains. The book provides a different, new perspective on PMOs and their design through the use of a principle-based approach, which makes PMOs more adaptable and tailored to the needs of each individual organization. The majority of the content presents a new perspective and makes good contributions that advance the field. By actively challenging established norms with well-argued alternatives, it delivers a unique, transformative perspective that redefines understanding.
The book highlights relevant case studies (including real-life case studies ) and examples underpinned by robust research across the different chapters of the book to support the theoretical part. They help in enriching the reader’s understanding and engagement.
But certain perspectives or situations could have been more thoroughly represented, which would have helped provide even deeper insight into the concepts. With a well-balanced selection of current references, the book demonstrates thorough research and a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
Dr. Robert is well known internationally and holds high credibility. He is a leading authority in the fields of PMO and project management, having developed and designed enterprise PMOs using various frameworks, including AIPMO’s Strategic Framework for PMOs and Portfolios, Programs, and Projects.
On the academic front, Dr. Robert has published several books, book chapters, and research papers in the fields of PMOs, leadership, project, program, and portfolio management. Furthermore, he is extremely influential in the educational field, providing training courses and postgraduate teaching, including doctorate supervision.
He actively engages with the community and readers, demonstrating influence and visibility. Additionally, his presence on social media platforms contributes to field discussions, further showcasing his impact and influence.
The book is well researched, drawing from a wide range of academic journals and other sources for references. The book includes a comprehensive 2-page references section at the end, as well as a reference page in the Forward, listing all sources utilized throughout the writing process.
With a well-balanced selection of current references, the book demonstrates thorough research and a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
The visuals are highly relevant and effectively represent the content. Furthermore, they are engaging and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the overall presentation. There is a well-balanced use of tables and graphs, and they are all well-integrated into the contents of each chapter. The consistent use of shades of green and pink in the charts, tables, and graphs provides an engaging reading experience. Each chapter also includes dedicated sections for important tips, definitions, and insights, surrounded by white spaces. These are distributed nicely across all chapters to highlight critical information that the reader should be aware of, which helps improve the reader’s comprehension and engagement with the material.