Overview
Holan Group was engaged to re-establish the Program Management Office (PMO) for a Defence digital area through transition to acquisition.
The PMO required a new risk management capability to manage a new series of risks for the project as it transitioned from the Risk Mitigation and Requirement Setting phase to the Acquisition phase. Holan was engaged to ensure the project’s risk management capability was aligned with that of the Prime System Integrator.
Services delivered
The Holan team developed and delivered a set of references and tools for the Program Director, decision-makers and stakeholders, enabling informed decisions about how to manage risk. This included strategies, plans, processes and models focused on:
- Risk governance
- Risk identification
- Risk measurement and assessment
- Risk mitigation
- Cadence for risk reporting and monitoring
Outcomes achieved
Holan project specialists successfully re-scoped the risk landscape for Defence. As part of contemporary risk stewardship, automation was implemented through Power BI desktop tools.
The program received a cost-efficient and effective risk management capability that supported a complex governance and reporting framework. The project also had a positive impact on the reputation of the Commonwealth and enhanced the effectiveness of the overall project — and externally, its success led to health and wellbeing benefits for veterans and service personnel.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Program Management Office?
A PMO provides the structure, tools and governance needed to plan, manage and report on programs and projects consistently across an organisation.
Why is a PMO important?
It ensures visibility, accountability and alignment between project delivery and strategic objectives, reducing duplication, managing risk and improving outcomes.
What does PMO establishment involve?
It includes defining governance structures, processes, templates, performance measures and reporting frameworks that fit your organisation’s maturity and culture.
How do you measure PMO success?
By tracking improvements in project delivery performance, benefits realisation, risk management and stakeholder confidence.
What are the critical success factors?
Strong executive sponsorship, clear scope, practical tools, skilled PMO leadership, and integration with existing planning and reporting systems.
