MSP in PM refers to Managing Successful Programmes (MSP), a widely recognized framework for programme management best practices. It provides a structured approach to managing complex change initiatives and achieving strategic goals.
Key Aspects of MSP
-
Programme Management Framework: MSP offers a detailed framework for managing programmes, which are collections of related projects designed to achieve a common strategic objective.
-
Principles-Based Approach: MSP is founded on a set of principles that guide programme management practices. These include:
- Justify Programme: Ensuring there's a valid business case for the programme.
- Learn from Experience: Continuously improving based on past successes and failures.
- Add Value: Focusing on delivering benefits that align with the strategic objectives.
- Design a Coherent Programme: Creating a well-defined programme structure.
- Lead with Purpose: Providing clear leadership and direction.
- Manage Benefits Realization: Actively managing the process of delivering and measuring benefits.
- Engage Stakeholders: Communicating and collaborating effectively with stakeholders.
-
Transformational Flow: MSP outlines a specific "Transformational Flow," a series of processes that guide the programme lifecycle from initiation to closure. This includes:
- Identifying a Programme: Defining the need for the programme.
- Defining a Programme: Elaborating on the programme's scope and objectives.
- Managing the Tranches: Breaking down the programme into manageable stages (tranches).
- Delivering the Capabilities: Implementing the projects that will deliver the required capabilities.
- Realising the Benefits: Ensuring the benefits are realized and sustained.
- Closing a Programme: Formally closing the programme and archiving documentation.
-
Benefits Realization Management: MSP places a strong emphasis on benefits realization management, ensuring that the programme delivers the intended benefits and that they are measured and tracked throughout the programme lifecycle.
Why Use MSP?
MSP helps organizations:
- Achieve Strategic Goals: By aligning programmes with strategic objectives.
- Manage Complexity: By providing a structured approach to managing complex projects and initiatives.
- Improve Benefits Realization: By focusing on delivering and measuring benefits.
- Increase Stakeholder Engagement: By promoting effective communication and collaboration.
- Improve Programme Success Rates: By providing a framework for best practice programme management.
In summary, MSP is a robust methodology that offers a comprehensive and structured approach to programme management, helping organizations effectively manage complex change and deliver tangible benefits.
