PRINCE2® (PRojects INControlled Environments) is a process-based methodology that can be applied to any project regardless of size, type, organisation or culture. The methodology focusus on ensuring the business benefits of a project are delivered and provides the controls to make this happen.
PRINCE2® is a registered trademark of the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) in the UK Government, but the methodology itself is non proprietary and in the public domain. It has now become the de facto standard in most countries, including Australia.
History of PRINCE®
PRINCE2® was first established in 1989 as the standard for all UK government information systems projects.
The second major version was published in 1996 as a result of contributions from countless project sponsors, project managers, project teams, academics, trainers and consultants.
Since then, it has undergone a number of updates, the most recent being introduced in June 2009. The table below gives a brief summary of the differences between this release and the previous release, PRINCE2®: 2005. The reason for this update was to take into account improved best-practice approaches, build upon the feedback received from the global project management community, and to bring the methodology in line with the other methodologies owned by the OGC.
PRINCE2® 2005
PRINCE2® 2009
Principles Implicit
7 Principles explicitly stated
8 Components
7 Themes replace Components
8 Processes
7 Processes
Scalability sections dispersed throughout the book
Tailoring PRINCE2® included as a separate chapter
One manual aimed at Project and Programme Managers, as well as Senior Management
Two manuals: Managing Successful Projects with PRINCE2® aimed at Project Managers. Directing Successful Projects with PRINCE2® aimed at Programme Managers and Project Board Members.
36 Management Products
26 Management Products
Introduction of strategy concept for Quality, Risk and Change Management
PRINCE2® Basic Concepts
PRINCE2® is a process driven methodology, comprising of 7 processes from Start-Up to Close. These processes encompass 7 principles and incorporate 7 themes. It is the efficient integration of the processes and themes and the application of the principles that define a PRINCE2® project and are ultimately the enablers of success.
PRINCE2® Principles
The 7 principles are universal and self-validating concepts that empower practitioners to influence and shape how their projects' will be managed. They provide a framework of good practice that enhance a project's chance of success. They are:
Continued business justification
Learn from experience
Defined roles and responsibilities
Manage by stages
Manage by exception
Focus on products
Tailor to suit the project environment.
PRINCE2® Themes
The 7 PRINCE2® themes describe aspects of project management that need to be followed in order to achieve a successful outcome. They are:
Business Case
Organisation
Quality
Plans
Risk
Change
Progress
PRINCE2® Processes
Each PRINCE2® Process is a structured set of activities for directing, managing and deliviring a project successfully. Each process is designed to accomplish a certain objective. The 7 Processes come together to form the chronological flow of the project.
The PRINCE2® 5-day Practitioner Course provides delegates with a deep understanding of this project management methodology and a firm basis for application in their organisation.
The PRINCE2® 3-day Foundation Course is aimed at delegates who require a good understanding of this project management methodology so that it can be applied in their organisation.
Ajilon also provides a 1-day overview course, which doesn't involve a certification, but is aimed at showcasing the benefits of the PRINCE2® methodology.
