Project Sponsor Responsibilities

Project Sponsors are often quite enthusiastic about their projects but many times they do not understand all the responsibilities that come with the role.

Here is a checklist for project managers to use when speaking with their sponsor.

Clearly understands the business need (time vs. resource vs. quality vs. scope)
Understands who the project end user is
Clarifies roles and responsibilities with Program Manager/Project Manager as appropriate
Defines and communicates success criteria for the program/project
Makes him/herself available to the Project Manager as appropriate
Sets realistic but challenging targets

Chairs the steering group/board (if one has been established)
Signs-off the Quality Plan
Makes resources available to the project team if appropriate
Communicates the project vision and its business priority
Believes in the intended outcome (is enthusiastic)
Demonstrates commitment
Sells the project to key stakeholders
Removes obstacles
Manages the political barriers and removes obstacles to success
Resolves conflict
Monitors progress
Controls or limits changes to objectives, scope, requirements, timescales and budget
Keeps stakeholders informed
Ensures that there is business review of the program/project
Monitors the realisation of the business benefits
Formally closes the project
Provides feedback to the contributors
Learns from experience

Do you have additional responsibilities that you would like to see added to this list? Please send them to resource @ mentoric.com.