Episode 322

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Published on:

24th Aug 2025

322: What are PMOs really for?

Welcome to the PMO Strategies Podcast + Blog, where PMO leaders become IMPACT Drivers!

PMI Talent Triangle: Power Skills

PMOs were never meant to be just about tracking outputs. The real reason executive teams approve the creation of a PMO is to drive better business outcomes. 

 

In this episode, I’m talking about how the original purpose of the PMO has been buried under layers of process, compliance, and bureaucracy—and what it takes to bring it back to driving meaningful results. 

 

I break down why purpose must come before process, how too many PMOs have slipped into measuring activity instead of outcomes, and the three commitments I’ve seen high-IMPACT PMOs make that set them apart from the rest. 

 

This episode is your blueprint for shifting the conversation from project volume to business velocity—especially if your PMO is being recognized more for producing status reports than for delivering strategic IMPACT. 

 

What You'll Learn:  

  • Why PMOs that focus on outcomes over process always win 
  • How to set strategy up for success before execution even begins 
  • Ways to optimize delivery systems to accelerate results, not slow them down 
  • How to hold your PMO accountable to real-world business outcomes 
  • Practical steps to reframe your value without waiting for permission 


👉 Press play to learn how to build real traction with your words—not just your workload. 

 

P.S. Looking to shift your PMO from execution to true strategic influence? The IMPACT Engine System gives you a clear, step-by-step path to deliver measurable outcomes, build executive trust, and elevate your role across the organization—without the chaos and overwhelm.   

P.P.S. On September 10, we’re celebrating the one-year anniversary of The IMPACT Engine! Whether you already own the book or have been waiting to grab a copy, now’s your chance. Not on the newsletter yet? Join today so you don’t miss the exclusive September 9 sneak peek at special offers and giveaways—my way of saying thanks for an incredibly IMPACTful year! 


Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!

I welcome your feedback and insights! 

I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!

Warmly,

Laura Barnard

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About the Podcast

PMO Strategies
with Laura Barnard
In this podcast, PMO leaders and those wanting to capitalize on the best of project management to deliver the organization’s strategy will uncover the hidden secrets of the best PMOs, learn the game-changing techniques that transform any PMO into a value-driven IMPACT Engine, and explore the best ways for the PMO to become an integral part of the fabric and future of an organization. After spending two and a half decades helping organizations deliver change, with 15 of those years in the shoes of PMO leader inside organizations, Laura strongly believes that there is more to making an IMPACT than templates, tools, and process. She’ll show you how to make the shifts necessary to become a business-focused PMO that will become an invaluable organizational asset. With her guests and insights, we explore the sticky situations and tough challenges PMO leaders face, from sorting through all of the “noise” about what the PMO “should” do to finding the best ways for your PMO to make an IMPACT. Listen in, and you can discover how to shift your focus from outputs to outcomes, fundamentally changing the game for your PMO and personal success.

About your host

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Laura Barnard