Evaluating city of knowledge’s project management office functions using BWM and importance‐performance analysis

The purpose of this study is to provide a model to explain the functions of the Project Management Office (PMO) of City Knowledge (CK) and prioritize their functions based on the importance-performance status.

The method of this research, In terms of purpose, is functional. In terms of data collection tools, it is descriptive (non-experimental). According to comprehensive literature review regarding to PMO functions, 28 main functions of the CK are identified. Questionnaires are designed and distributed among managers, consultants, facilitators and senior experts of City of Knowledge after content validity and reliability. The data are analyzed using structural equation modeling after measuring the construct validity by exploratory factor analysis. Then the best-worst method is used to prioritize the functions and sub-functions of the model. Then, the performance of each functions is obtained by conducting a survey of experts in the PMO of City of Knowledge. Finally, the functions of the PMO are prioritized using the importance‐performance analysis.

Based on the research findings, 7 functions with 28 sub-functions explain the conceptual model of the research. Also, based on the findings of  the importance‐performance analysis , design and documentation of project management system in the form of process diagrams, procedures and instructions, uniform formats and standard formats, transparency and clarity of information provided in project planning and organization, providing training services in the field of concepts Processes-Methods and tools of project management, design and development and deployment of project management information systems in the organization, participation in evaluating the performance of project managers, and project management teams are the first priority of improvemen.

Originality/Value:

 In this study, a model for assessing the prioritize of functions of the PMO to create an innovation center is presented. The proposed framework could be a good guideline for universities' policymakers to proceed with development projects and be a suitable model for others to benchmark development plans.