ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on how those who find themselves in the project shaper role by accident or design can best support the project initiation process. It explores how to develop and reinforce agency as a mechanism for supporting or compensating for organizational inadequacies, what to look for in evaluating the organization and devising the most relevant strategy to move forward, and guidelines for embracing the project shaper role. The presence of 'strong agency' has been demonstrated to compensate for a range of political and process-related challenges. It has had a positive influence in organizations where the rule system has been described as 'somewhat effective'. Understanding the rule system requires being aware of both the political and the process dimensions of the project initiation process, and the degree to which each is adhered to within the organization. Recognizing the formality, consistency and actual application of the rule system associated with project initiation is therefore an important initial step.
