Framework of standards, guides and methodologies for project, program, portfolio, and PMO management

Abstract

Project, program, portfolio, and Project Management Office (PMO) management standards, guides, and methodologies are indispensable for professionals and companies as they reflect the best practices in the area. However, the number and diversity of extant documents are significant and growing, making their identification, study, and selection difficult. To help overcome this issue, this article presents a framework that integrates and organizes a wide range of concepts, standards, guides, and methodologies for project, program, portfolio, and PMO management. We carried out a literature review of the available documents published by several international entities, including the leading professional associations. The documents were then compiled, analyzed, and organized comprehensively. Theoretically, the proposed framework provides a structured perspective on the standards, guides, and methodologies according to their purpose, scope, and detail. It is also a valuable tool for assisting practitioners in identifying references for managing their projects, programs, portfolios, and PMOs. Moreover, it provides teachers, students, and training entities with a basis for studying standards, guides, and methodologies and designing training courses.