384: The PMO Math Problem: Why More Work Creates Less Value

Welcome to the PMO Strategies Podcast + Blog, where PMO leaders become IMPACT Drivers!PMI Talent Triangle: Business AcumenPMO leaders are usually excellent at addition. A stakeholder needs better visibility, so we add a dashboard. Projects are struggling, so we add governance. Adoption is weak, so we add training, communication, and another control. Every addition may be defensible. Together, they can leave your team spread across too many unfinished services while executives are still waiting for something to get better. In this episode, I’m taking you through the PMO math problem that keeps capable leaders busy without creating enough visible value. We’ll look at why the organization’s ability to absorb change matters just as much as your team’s capacity, and why subtraction is a leadership decision rather than a retreat. 🔹 How the addition trap erodes adoption and executive trust 🔹 What to subtract without abandoning important commitments 🔹 Why one root-cause-focused MVP can solve more than several partial services 🔹 How a finished result creates champions who help multiply your IMPACT Press play to learn how to focus your PMO on the right business problem, deliver measurable value sooner, and build support for what comes next. P.S. Ready to stop piecing together the answer? Join me live for the IMPACT Engine Practitioner Certification Program on December 2, 4, 9, and 11. During these live, virtual half-day sessions, we will work through all six stages of the IMPACT Engine and practice making the focused decisions your organization needs. Explore IMPACT Engine Practitioner. Enrollment closes November 20, 2026. Thanks for taking the time to check out the podcast!I welcome your feedback and insights! I’d love to know what you think and if you love it, please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast player. Please leave a comment below to share your thoughts. See you online!Warmly,Laura BarnardGET NOTIFIED ABOUT NEW EPISODES | TELL US WHAT YOU WANT TO LEARN | PDU REPORTING INSTRUCTIONS