What is Project Management Process Tailoring?
Project management process tailoring refers to the deliberate modification and customization of standard project management processes, tools, and techniques to suit the specific needs of a project, based on its size, complexity, industry, and organizational environment.
Instead of applying a “one-size-fits-all” approach, tailoring ensures that the project management approach aligns with project size, complexity, risk, culture, and delivery method.
Why Tailoring is Important
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Different project sizes | A small internal project may not need formal procurement or governance steps |
| Industry-specific needs | E.g., construction vs. software projects require different processes |
| Organizational culture | Agile startups vs. process-heavy enterprises |
| Delivery method | Predictive (Waterfall), Agile, or Hybrid |
| Efficiency | Avoid unnecessary documentation or bureaucracy |
Reasons for tailoring
- Project Size & Complexity
- Development Approach (Predictive, Agile, Hybrid)
- Industry & Regulatory Needs
- Organizational Culture & Maturity
- Stakeholder Needs
- Technology & Tools Available
- Risk Appetite & Criticality
Tailoring Steps
- Assess Project Characteristics
(Scope, timeline, stakeholders, constraints) - Review Organisational Process Assets (OPAs)
- Select Relevant Processes from PMBOK or Agile Frameworks
- Adapt Inputs, Tools, Techniques & Outputs (ITTOs)
- Document Tailoring Decisions
- Monitor and Adjust Continuously