Enterprise Environmental Factors (EEF)

 

Summary of Enterprise Environmental Factors (EEF)

1. Definition:

   • Enterprise Environmental Factors (EEF) are internal and external factors that influence a project but are not part of the project itself.
   • These factors impact the organization, projects, and outcomes, either enhancing or constraining them.

2. Key Characteristics:

   • Unique to each organization, reflecting its culture, structure, and environment.
   • Essential for planning, execution, and decision-making in project management.
   • Act as inputs in nearly all of the 49 processes.

3. Categories of EEF:

   • Internal Factors:
     • Organizational Structure and Governance:
       • Defines who has authority and how decisions are approved.
     • Company Culture:
       • Risk tolerance, communication practices, and approval methods.
     • Information Technology:
       • Tools and systems used (e.g., Microsoft Project, Excel).
     • Resource Distribution:
       • Availability and allocation of facilities, infrastructure, and employees.
     • Work Environment:
       • Virtual vs. in-person operations.
   • External Factors:
     • Political Climate:
       • National or regional politics that influence project execution.
     • Government and Industry Standards:
       • Compliance with specific rules and regulations.
     • Legal Restrictions:
       • Laws that govern project activities.
     • Economic Conditions:
       • Funding availability or financial stability of the organization.

4. Examples of EEF Influence:

   • Project Management Plan:
     • Regulations and industry standards affect planning and execution.
   • Project Charter:
     • The organizational structure impacts approval processes.
   • Execution:
     • Available technology determines the tools used.
   • Closure:
     • Procedures for finalizing and documenting projects vary by organization.

5. Why EEF Matters:

   • Impacts decision-making, resource allocation, and project execution.
   • Ensures compliance with internal and external standards.
   • Tailors project plans to align with organizational practices and external conditions.

6. Examples in Practice:

   • A healthcare organization may prioritize compliance with medical regulations.
   • A construction company may adhere to strict building codes and safety standards.
   • A global corporation may face challenges with international political climates and resource distribution.

7. Commonality in Project Management:

   • EEF is one of the most frequent inputs across the 49 processes.
   • Paired with Organizational Process Assets (OPA) as essential inputs for project planning and management.

8. Highlighted Points:

   • EEF = Culture:
     • Think of EEF as the "company culture," influencing how projects are managed.
   • Universal but Unique:
     • All organizations have EEF, but the specific factors vary.
   • Critical Input:
     • EEF directly impacts nearly every process in project management.

Key Takeaway:

Enterprise Environmental Factors shape how projects are planned, executed, and managed. Understanding EEF ensures alignment with organizational culture, standards, and external influences, making it a critical component of successful project management. "Know the culture, tailor the plan, deliver the success."