Engagement TOP DRIVER OF PROJECT AND PROGRAM SUCCESS

For the second year in a row, Project Management Institute (PMI) research shows that having actively engaged executive sponsors is the top driver of project success. Yet this research also shows that fewer than two-thirds of projects and programs have assigned executive sponsors, suggesting that organizations are not fully recognizing the importance of the role. This situation results in significant losses for organizations around the world, but research shows there are some simple solutions that organizations can undertake. Our Pulse of the Profession ® In-Depth research on executive sponsors uncovers three primary factors that can limit or inhibit sponsors ’ ability to be effective: an organizational culture that leads to sponsors being overextended; inefficient communication; and lack of professional development of sponsors. OVEREXTENSION Overextension is a serious threat to organizations ’ ability to execute on strategic initiatives. Sponsors report that on average they work on three projects or programs at a time, spending an average of 13 hours per week on each project or program they sponsor—in addition to their regular jobs. COMMUNICATION It is unsurprising that communication gaps are affecting sponsors ’ ability to effectively perform their role. PMI’s Pulse of the Profession ® In-Depth Report: The Essential Role of Communications revealed that US$7