Project Management Office | Mercer School of Medicine

Dedicated to effective planning, execution, and oversight, the Project Management Office (PMO) ensures projects align with our strategic goals. Whether in research or community outreach, the PMO provides expertise in governance, planning, resource management, risk mitigation, quality assurance, performance monitoring, and knowledge management. Faculty and staff can confidently manage projects by leveraging the PMO’s resources, advancing our mission to educate health care professionals for Georgia’s rural and underserved areas.

Support available through our PMO

Consultation Services
Our PMO offers expert consultation to help you refine project ideas, align them with your organization’s goals, and strategize for success. We understand that the initial planning phase is crucial, and our team is here to provide guidance every step of the way.

Grant Assistance
We can assist you in identifying relevant funding opportunities, crafting compelling grant proposals, and navigating the intricacies of grant applications. Our track record of securing grants for rural healthcare and mental health initiatives speaks to our expertise in this crucial area.

Project Management
We offer a robust framework for project management, including planning, execution, monitoring, and evaluation. Our methodologies are designed to optimize resource allocation, mitigate risks, and ensure project delivery within scope, on time, and within budget.

Engaging with the PMO is not just an option; it is a strategic imperative. Collaborating with our team ensures that your care projects are well-planned, efficiently executed, and positioned for long-term success. We recognize that the challenges in the healthcare research and implementation sector are multifaceted, and we are here to support you in addressing them comprehensively.

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Standard Grant Process at Mercer University

Step 1: Identify Potential Funding

The PMO can assist faculty in identifying potential opportunities, but it is ultimately the responsibility of the principal investigator (PI) to locate appropriate opportunities.

Step 2: Notify PMO of Intent to Apply

Many opportunities allow only one application per entity. The PMO is responsible for ensuring PI’s request to apply is registered with GCO. This is typically a “first-come-first-serve” situation.

Step 3: Identify Budget and Project Scope

PIs should complete the budget very early in the writing process. This budget must be approved before the PTF in step 5 can proceed. The budget will serve as the “guiding light” regarding what is possible in the proposal. Budgets are typically approved by Melanie Townsend or Travis Wright. The PMO can manage this process.

Step 4: Complete all Documents Required by Funder

PIs are responsible for writing the proposal and various components. The PMO will assist with editing, reading for clarity, and ensuring the proposal aligns with funder requirements. The PMO can assist with drafting various attachments, such as Letters of Support, subcontract documents, etc.

Step 5: Complete Requirements of PTF

Once the budget is approved and the key components of the proposal are completed, the PMO will trigger the PTF process. It is important to note that PTFs MUST be completed no less than 10 days in advance of the funder’s due date. Failure to submit a PTF 10 days in advance, may prevent the application from being submitted.

Step 6: Complete Application and Submit

The PMO will request the application to be opened in Cayuse. It is the PI’s choice to populate the application or have the PMO populate it. Once the PTF has received University approval, GCO will notify the PI and PMO. Before GCO can formally submit the application, the PI is required to finalize it.

When evaluating whether a grant opportunity is suitable for your project and goals, consider the following steps in a systematic and objective manner:

Read the Grant Guidelines. This sounds obvious, but many become overly excited about a grant title without reading all the details and requirements. Begin by thoroughly reviewing the grant’s guidelines and eligibility criteria. Ensure that your project aligns with the grant’s specific objectives and focus areas.
Assess Your Project’s Alignment. Evaluate how closely your project aligns with the grant’s priorities, goals, and intended outcomes. Highlight any synergies between your project and the grant’s requirements.
Review the Grantor’s Mission and Values. Understand the mission and values of the organization offering the grant. Ensure that your project aligns with their broader mission and objectives.
Evaluate Grant Requirements. Analyze the grant’s requirements, including deadlines, budget limitations, reporting obligations, and any match funding requirements. Confirm that you can meet these requirements.
Consider Geographic Relevance. Given your passion for rural healthcare, assess whether the grant opportunity supports projects in rural areas or focuses on mental health care, as these areas align with your expertise and interests.
Identify Competing Priorities. Be aware of any competing priorities or ongoing projects within your organization. It is essential to understand if others are embarking on a similar project that can complement your project and create a mor comprehensive team. Ensure that pursuing the grant will not overextend your team or resources.
Seek Feedback. Discuss the grant opportunity with colleagues, mentors, or advisors who are familiar with your field. Their insights can provide valuable perspectives.
Cost-Benefit Analysis. Perform a cost-benefit analysis to assess whether the potential benefits of the grant outweigh the resources and effort required to apply for it.
Past Awardees. Research previous grant awardees to gauge the types of projects that have been successful. This can provide insights into the grantor’s preferences.
Assess Your Readiness. Evaluate your organization’s readiness to take on the proposed project, including the availability of key personnel, infrastructure, and support systems.
Develop a Grant Strategy. If the grant opportunity aligns with your project and goals, develop a comprehensive grant strategy that includes a clear project plan, budget, and timeline.
Seek Expert Input. Consider consulting with a grant writing professional or seeking peer review to ensure that your proposal is well-crafted and competitive.

Remember, it’s crucial to be selective in pursuing grants that genuinely support your objectives and can make a meaningful impact in rural healthcare and mental health care. By following these steps, you can make informed decisions about which grant opportunities are the right fit for your portfolio and mission.

NIH Resources

Project Management Office Director

Sherrie Williams, LCSW, PMP

Williams has extensive expertise in grant writing, project management, and operations. Over the past 16 years, her leadership has been pivotal in securing millions of dollars in grant awards, particularly for rural initiatives, substance use, and mental healthcare projects.

Project Management Office (PMO)