Unlocking the Future of PMOs: AI, Complexity, and Intentional Strategy
| by Carrie Capili
61% of high-performing PMOs use AI-supported practices to help them meet their goals.
In the State of the PMO 2025 research survey, we introduced two new topics: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Project Management Office as a Service (PMOaaS). We’ve been talking about AI and project management for quite some time. In fact, we have a three-part blog series you can check out here. But it’s time to put some numbers behind those trends we’re going to continue to track.
Coming out in just a few weeks, the State of the PMO 2025 research report found that:
- More than 36% of organizations with PMOs use AI-supported practices to help them meet their goals.
- 61% of high-performing PMOs use AI-supported practices to help them meet their goals.
- The percentage of PMOs that use AI-supported practices correlates with organization size: small (40%), mid-size (38%), and large (30%).
- AI is used extensively (3.4) to facilitate communication.
But what do these numbers really mean?
They don’t mean that AI is replacing people. However, it will make the landscape more complex. An increase in complexity underscores the need to focus on using the right resources and/or tools to support the right initiative. And also, like anything that adds a high level of complexity, the absolute necessity of intentional
decision-making will come to the forefront. AI operating within a system that is intentionally outlined to work with project managers and as a tool to help project managers can do wonders for organizational success.
Another aspect of intentional AI usage within high-performing organizations to consider is training. As the percentage of organizations using AI increases, ensuring the right training is available becomes crucial. We talk a little more about this on here on our PM College blog. Consistently across all our research, we’ve found that high-performing organizations offer more types of training, for more days, on more advanced topics. And the topic of AI will follow suit. High performers will continue to invest in AI training for their workforce because it drives successful outcomes.
We’ll continue the conversation about AI and project management right here on our blog. Stay tuned for the full State of the PMO 2025 research report coming soon, where you can dive deep into our respondents' analytics and benchmark your efforts.
Drop us a question or comment you’d like discussed here on the blog!
Next up, we’ll talk about the other new part of this year’s research: PMO as a Service.
FAQs
How are PMOs using artificial intelligence?
PMOs use artificial intelligence to support project planning, facilitate communication, analyze project data, improve reporting, and assist with decision-making. AI-supported practices can help project teams work more efficiently and give PMO leaders better information to support organizational goals.
Are high-performing PMOs more likely to use AI?
Yes. According to PM Solutions' State of the PMO 2025 research, 61% of high-performing PMOs use AI-supported practices to help meet their goals, compared with more than 36% of organizations with PMOs overall.
Why is training important for AI adoption in project management?
Training helps project managers and PMO staff understand how to use AI tools effectively, evaluate AI-generated information, and incorporate new capabilities into existing workflows. Without adequate training, organizations may struggle to translate AI investments into meaningful improvements.
Will artificial intelligence replace project managers?
AI is more likely to change how project managers work than eliminate the need for them. While AI can automate routine tasks, analyze data, and support decision-making, project management still requires human judgment, leadership, communication, and strategic thinking.