Over the next few posts we are going to be taking a look at some of the key people involved in the project management process.
No matter what tools are utilized, or what the organizational structure is, it is PEOPLE that get things done. It is people that execute and complete project activities.
One of the key people roles is the Project SPONSOR.
According to PMI the Sponsor is ‘The person or group that provides the financial resources, in cash or in kind, for the project’
More often than not the Sponsor is a Senior Manager in the Organization who wants the project done, normally because it will benefit them in some way.
A good Sponsor is one who understands how the performing organization works and can get things done. The Sponsor ensures that the required resources are made available for the project and that links are established to key areas in the organization. This requires good management skills and pragmatism.
The Sponsor has a business need for the project, the organization grants the Sponsor the resources and money and the Sponsor contracts with the Project Team to deliver the project.
In a project organization the Project Manager works for the Sponsor and the Sponsor works for the Business.
There will normally be little contact with the Sponsor apart from formal Project Reviews, however it is vital that the Sponsor is available to the Project Manager and has her “ear”.
For successful Project Execution a powerful and influencial Sponsor is of great benefit.
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