Both Augmented Project Manager and Fractional Project Manager are roles to supplement a company’s project management capabilities. However, they differ in several key ways.
Augmented Project Manager
Project manager augmentation involves hiring a full-time project manager to work within the company. This person is responsible for managing all aspects of the company’s projects, including planning, execution, monitoring, and control. They are typically employed on a long-term basis and are fully integrated into the company’s operations.
Fractional Project Manager
Fractional project management, on the other hand, involves hiring a part-time or contract-based project manager to work on a specific project or set of projects. This person is not a full-time employee of the company, but rather a consultant who is brought in to provide expertise and support. They are responsible for managing the project within the parameters set by the company, but do not have the same level of control over the project as a full-time project manager would.
Which one is right for you?
The choice between project manager augmentation and fractional project management depends on a variety of factors, including the size and complexity of the project, the resources available within the company, and the company’s overall strategic goals. Augmenting with a full-time project manager is typically best for large, complex projects that require a high degree of coordination and oversight, while fractional project management is often used for smaller, more focused projects that can be managed by a consultant or part-time project manager. Ultimately, the decision should be based on a careful analysis of the company’s needs, resources, and goals, as well as a thorough assessment of the project management options available.