E1: Stop Waiting for Perfect Data: How to Start Resource Planning Now with Bob Blackburn

March 2, 2026

Most PMOs stall on resource planning because the data isn’t perfect. Bob Blackburn, a PMO leader with 20+ years of experience, says stop waiting and explains exactly how to start.

In this episode, Bob and host Samantha Varner break down:

Staffing vs. forecasting – and why most teams confuse the two
How to build capacity models for projects that don’t exist yet
Why directionally accurate beats waiting for perfect
The real risk of the blank sheet of paper

Perfect for PMO leaders, portfolio managers, and resource managers ready to move from paralysis to progress.

Transcript

00:00 The Importance of Data Quality in Resource Planning

06:10 Understanding Resource Planning: Staffing vs. Forecasting

12:16 The Role of PMO in Project Intake and Planning

18:54 Agile Capacity Planning: A New Approach

25:53 Defining Roles: Project Managers, Resource Managers, and Functional Managers

31:28 Aligning Project and Functional Managers for Success

36:24 Directionally Right: Metrics and Signals for Resource Planning

38:54 Starting Resource Planning: Practical Steps for Implementation

41:39 Future Focus: Strategic Portfolio Management and Value

Connect with Bob on LinkedIn

Presented By: ProSymmetry

Hosted and produced by Samantha Varner

Produced and edited by Kyle Wertz

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E1: Stop Waiting for Perfect Data: How to Start Resource Planning Now with Bob Blackburn

Transcript

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