Crown Research Institute – Transforming GNS Science through Programme Management Office Services

In 2018, GNS Science embarked on a transformative journey by seeking external expertise to introduce Programme Management Office (PMO) services. This endeavour posed a unique challenge as GNS Science, with its scientist-based teams, had traditionally managed projects independently.

The Initial Challenge: Bridging Disciplinary Divides

The challenge lay in introducing robust project management disciplines to an organisation primarily composed of scientists who were accustomed to managing projects internally. Our task was to navigate this transition and foster a culture of effective project management within GNS Science.

Our Strategic Approach: Cultivating Project Excellence

Despite the initial hurdles, our efforts to instil core project disciplines within GNS Science proved successful. We embarked on standardising project initiation and execution processes, particularly for their major initiatives.

We also played a pivotal role in overseeing the high-profile Geonet project. This initiative aimed to establish real-time monitoring of earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and landslides. The “Eyes on” operation centre was designed to provide critical information within minutes, a significant shift in the realm of scientific operations.

Project Execution: A Timely Success

The Geonet project achieved a significant milestone by going live in December 2018, coinciding with a ministerial opening ceremony. This marked the successful culmination of our collaborative efforts.

Project Impact: Accelerating Disaster Response

The impact of our work at GNS Science was far-reaching:

• Shortened Response Times: The implementation of the Geonet project dramatically reduced the time required to identify, report, and initiate responses to natural disasters. This acceleration is invaluable in safeguarding lives and property during critical events.
• Governance Reinforcement: We introduced a robust governance structure, ensuring that project management practices remained consistent and aligned with organisational goals. This framework provided clarity and accountability.
• Successful Project Delivery: Our commitment to the December 2018 deadline, coupled with the alignment of project management disciplines, resulted in the Chief Executive of GNS Science deeming the project a resounding success.

Our collaboration with GNS Science exemplifies the transformative potential of introducing PMO services to research-based organisations. By nurturing a culture of effective project management and overseeing high-impact initiatives like Geonet, we have played a vital role in advancing GNS Science’s capabilities in disaster response and scientific research.