Managing Successful Programmes
Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) represents proven programme management good practice in successfully delivering transformational change, drawn from the experiences of both public and private sector organisations.
The MSP Methodology is from the same proven stable of OGC methods as PRINCE2, ITIL and MoR and is unique in tackling programmes and more holistic business transformation rather than projects where there are a number of methods available (PRINCE2, PMBoK, DSDM Atern, Scrum etc.).
Much like PRINCE2 the method has been steadily evolved and improved through a series of refreshes to the current third edition (2007) with a new refresh in the pipeline.
Because the MSP Methodology relies on projects to deliver the building blocks of change and transformation (usually assuming these are delivered using PRINCE2 but in practice a range of methods could be used depending on the project’s requirements) the method is relatively light on detailed control and other project techniques. Instead the focus is on setting policy and establishing Principles and Governance Themes to ensure that the direction of the programme is aligned with organisational strategy and it’s constituent projects are delivering the required capabilities.
Like PRINCE2 the MSP methodology has a central process flow, called the Transformational Flow which takes users through identifying the need for a programme and then defining it. The flow then uses a series of tranches to group projects for delivery which is managed with project oversight. Finally a closing process ties up activities and undertakes assessments of success and plans for future success assessments as the ongoing benefits are expected to be realised.
MSP Breakdown
MSP has seven principles which a successful programme should follow:
- Remaining aligned with corporate strategy
- Leading change
- Envisoning and communicating a better future
- Focusing on the benefits and threats to them
- Adding value
- Designing and delivering a coherent capability
- Learning from experience
MSP has nine Governance themes which run through the programme activities:
- Organisation
- Vision
- Leadership & Stakeholder Engagement
- Benefits Realisation Management
- Blueprint Design & Delivery
- Planning & Control
- Business Case
- Risks & Issue Management
- Quality Management
The following processes make up the Transformational Flow:
- Identifying a Programme
- Defining a Programme
- Managing the Tranches
- Delivering the Capability
- Realising the Benefits
- Closing a Programme
“Overall it [the MSP® Method Template] is a useful addition to the armoury of the programme office team and would provide a good basis on which to develop the documentation for a programme”
APMG reviewer
MSP® -
MSP Resources
The following links allow you to explore some of the Managing Successful Programmes areas:
Or why not find out more about other project and programme methodologies:
ITIL
PMI/PMBok
Purchase the MSP Method Template to use with Personal Edition or Small Team Edition for just £75+vat. Take it with you as a handy portable reference.
Purchase the MSP Method Template for use on Small Team Edition for just £500+vat and give your whole team access to the materials if you wish.
The MSP Method Template is provided as standard as part of the Enterprise Edition server helping your organisation deliver programmes with confidence and assurance.
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