The article deals with the process of modernization of public administration through the introduction of a project management system: defines its role, place and possible application prospects; the main barriers to the introduction and successful implementation of the project management system are identified, including the unwillingness to change and possible risks, the misconception about the system and the results of its application, the imperfection of the legal framework. Also, the problems that require solutions are training of specialists in the field of project management, implementation and use of the software, the complexity of determining the objectives of the project, the effectiveness of its implementation, incorrect distribution of responsibilities. The authors suggest ways to create favorable conditions for effective use of the system of project management in the state structure, including improving knowledge of employees, improvement of the legal framework and case management system, management reporting, formation of statistical base for further analysis of project performance and the use of information for more efficient building of further work.