Is your team rowing really hard but heading in the wrong direction?

 Oct 02, 2014

Many organisations still implement methodologies that only focus on the details pertaining to ‘how’ to manage the workload of the project and create the product of the project. In my work in relation to project ‘recovery’ consulting, I’ve observed that nearly all the available time of the project manager, the project office, and the executives is spent on the little tactical details. While this is important and necessary, it leaves no time to consider the big decisions, the strategic choices, and the benefits realisation layer. Organisations can learn from many years of past lessons by considering and implementing the PRINCE2® method into their organisations and integrating it with other more detailed methodologies (i.e. PMBOK® Guide from the Project Management Institute). This combination will give you the maximum maturity growth and results for the least incremental effort and cost. By incorporating the PRINCE2® principles below, organisations can ensure that the big decisions and business objectives remain top priority and direct the work of the project accordingly. While the PRINCE2® method includes much more that you can leverage in terms of processes and guidance, these principles are fundamental for success and drive decision making throughout the project. Business Justification – A PRINCE2® project needs to ALWAYS have continued business justification. If no business benefit remains, then what justifies the start or continuation of the project in the first place? Often, justification is used to start the project, but how often is it revisited throughout the project? How often are we re-forecasting benefits? Learn from Experience – In PRINCE2®, this principle is very strong and encourages project managers and the organisation to make sure the lessons are being learned and not just ‘documented.’ This implies that we must proactively seek out and incorporate lessons from prior projects. Roles and Responsibilities – A PRINCE2® project has defined roles & responsibilities that are agreed upon and are set out in a structure that effectively engages the key three project interests: business, user and supplier stakeholders. Manage by Stages – A PRINCE2® project mandates that there should be a minimum of two management stages and the duration of these stages are determined by the risk based needs of the project. By exploring PRINCE2® in more detail, you will learn how management stages are different than technical stage.

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About the Author:

Gina Davidovic  

Gina Davidovic, is a PRINCE2®, PMP, ACP, and PgMP certified trainer and project management practitioner with over 25 years experience in project, program and portfolio management. Gina has worked in many private and public sector organisations, and has expertise across various industries, including technology, mining, engineering, construction, manufacturing, telecommunications, manufacturing, and government. With an international focus, she has held high-profile roles in Australia, Canada, and the United States delivering strategic project and programs. This real world experience coupled with excellent facilitation skills allows students to gain incredibly practical lessons through engaging and insightful delivery in her classes.

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