Much like a marathon, enterprise agility requires stamina, strategic planning, and the ability to adapt on the fly. In both marathons and projects, success doesn’t come from a single sprint but from the ability to maintain momentum, navigate challenges, and adjust course when necessary. This is where Project Management Offices (PMOs) play a pivotal role.

PMOs act as the long-distance runners of an organization, ensuring that projects are aligned with strategic goals, resources are optimized, and risks are mitigated throughout the journey. Like marathon runners, PMOs must anticipate challenges—whether it’s shifting market conditions or evolving stakeholder needs—and stay adaptable to keep the organization on track toward its long-term goals.

Much like the careful pacing required in a marathon, PMOs help teams break down complex projects into manageable sprints, ensuring that progress remains steady and sustainable. They foster collaboration, communication, and agility across all levels of the organization, helping projects thrive no matter what obstacles arise.

On the day of the Boston Marathon, we’re reminded that both marathons and projects are about the journey as much as the destination. In this race, PMOs are the unsung heroes, driving enterprise agility with the precision and perseverance of a marathon runner.

How does your PMO support agility and long-term success in your organization?

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About the Writer

Dr. Brian Williamson is the Executive Director with PMO Advisory and a Visiting Lecturer in Leadership and Management Studies at the University of Oxford. A global authority in business transformation, employee experience, and purpose-driven project management, he has authored multiple books.