When establishing a new PMO, the foundational step is to assess the current maturity of organizational project management practices. PMI-PMOCP stresses that understanding the existing capabilities and gaps enables the PMO professional to develop tailored interventions and set realistic objectives.
This maturity assessment informs the design of the PMO charter, processes, and plans, ensuring they are relevant and aligned with organizational needs. Creating policies or plans without this understanding risks misalignment and inefficiency. The maturity assessment also supports stakeholder engagement by providing an objective baseline from which to measure progress.
Reference:PMI Project Management Office Certified Professional (PMI-PMOCP)Examination Content Outline, PMI 2021.PMI-PMOCP Study Guide, Chapter on PMO Establishment and Organizational Maturity.