Best for high-priority, high-impact, strategic university initiatives that need a dedicated expert. In this model, the UPMO assigns a Project Manager to lead the work from start to finish. We partner with you to:

• Drive the strategy: Create and manage all foundational plans, including but not limited to identifying deliverables and creating project charters, governance structures, timelines and risk management.
• Lead daily operations: Manage schedules, facilitate meetings and map out processes to clarify how work gets done.
• Monitor success: Track progress toward milestones to keep the project on its timeline.
• Keep leaders informed: Provide executive sponsors with clear updates on project health, decision points and strategies to overcome roadblocks.
• Advise on best practices: Offer expert guidance on streamlining workflows to improve long-term efficiency even after the project is complete.
• Define roles and responsibilities: Establish clear accountability by defining who is responsible, consulted and informed for every phase of the project.
• Coordinate communications and change: Manage integrated communication plans, stakeholder engagement and change management strategies to support a smooth transition.

Best for departments that have a staff lead but need a professional roadmap. The UPMO provides the framework while your department provides the Project Manager. We offer:

• Mentorship and coaching: One-on-one professional guidance to help your staff build their leadership skills and project confidence.
• Professional blueprints: Access to templates for defining project scope, communication plans and budgets.
• Operational advice: Consultation on the best ways to optimize your internal processes during the project.
• Structure and oversight: Assistance in setting up clear roles, tracking progress and managing stakeholder expectations.

Best for teams looking for expert advice on specific project pieces. For units that want to manage their own work but need high-level perspective, we provide:

• Strategic coaching: Professional recommendations and one-on-one sessions to help you define goals and navigate complex challenges.
• Governance design: Help in building reporting structures and timelines that meet university standards.
• Project architecture: Advice on defining clear deliverables and choosing the right approach for your team’s specific needs.

Do you have an idea for a project that would benefit from professional support? Email us your idea at woodmc@vcu.edu.

Projects are evaluated based on factors such as:

• Strategic alignment
• Complexity
• Risk
• Budget and resource requirements
• Cross-unit impact
• Student, faculty or staff impact