Results Without Authority is perfect for the “Monkeys in the Middle”!  This book discusses how to get things done when you are not the formal Project Manager.  I work in a large Program Management Office (PMO) with a very high level Program Manager who has the legal and managerial responsibilities of multiple programs, each with wide reaching effects and with multi-million dollar budgets.   There are several layers of Assistant Program Managers, and again layers of Project Managers.  This is the formal layout of our office.  These individuals have incredibly busy schedules including frequent travel requirements and cannot be present every day.  They count on their team members to really get it done.

In his book, Mr. Kendrick follows closely the PM Book of Knowledge (PMBOK) and how a team member with no formally assigned authority can really take the lead and make things happen.  These types of people, who do not feel they need a title to get things done, become treasures within a Program Management Office.  His approach involves using relationships, as well as reciprocal talents — or helping others in order to receive assistance in return.

Mr. Kendrick suggests his book be used as a reference as you manage your project.  He covers everything from the scope and initial requirements process through the entire life cycle of a project.  I really appreciated the priorities he placed on team recognition, team kick off, and project closure.  In my personal experience positive feedback is much more effective in getting things done than formal demands.

Works Cited

Kendrick, Tom. Results Without Authority: Controlling a Project When the Project Team Doesn’t

Report to You. New York: American Management Association. 2006. Print.