What level of authority does a directive project management office (PMO) exercise?

A directive project management office (PMO) exercises full authority over project management within the organization. This means that the PMO not only provides guidance and support but also has the power to make decisions and enforce project management processes and methodologies. In this model, project managers report directly to the PMO, which operates as an authoritative body, directing the planning, execution, and control of projects. This level of authority is typically found in organizations with a strong project management focus where adherence to standards and practices is critical for project success. Having full authority allows the directive PMO to ensure alignment with organizational goals, resource allocation, and consistency across projects.