Six Sigma: Achieving Excellence through Process Improvement

Six Sigma: Achieving Excellence through Process Improvement

In today's competitive business landscape, organizations strive for operational excellence and continuous improvement to remain successful. One methodology that has gained prominence in this pursuit is Six Sigma, a data-driven approach that focuses on minimizing defects and variations in processes, ultimately leading to improved efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Unlocking the Potential of Six Sigma

Six Sigma is not just a buzzword; it's a structured approach to process improvement that has yielded remarkable results across industries. Let's delve into what Six Sigma is, its core principles, and how it can revolutionize your organization.

Defining Six Sigma

At its core, Six Sigma is a methodology that aims to achieve near-perfect processes by reducing defects and errors to an astonishingly low level - no more than 3.4 defects per million opportunities. This statistical approach ensures that processes are consistent and deliver products or services that meet or exceed customer expectations consistently.

History and Evolution

Six Sigma didn't emerge overnight; it has evolved over decades. Originally introduced by Motorola in the 1980s, it gained widespread recognition after General Electric's successful implementation under the leadership of Jack Welch. Since then, numerous organizations have adopted and adapted Six Sigma to suit their specific needs.

Principles of Six Sigma

Six Sigma operates on several key principles:

1. Focus on Customer Value: Six Sigma places the customer at the center, ensuring that products and services fulfill their needs and preferences.
2. Data-Driven Decision Making: Decisions are based on empirical evidence, minimizing assumptions and guesswork.
3. Process Excellence: The methodology targets process improvement rather than quick fixes, fostering sustainable change.
4. Collaboration: Cross-functional teams work together to identify issues, analyze data, and implement solutions.
5. Continuous Improvement: Six Sigma is a never-ending journey, encouraging organizations to strive for excellence relentlessly.

DMAIC Methodology

The DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) methodology is the cornerstone of Six Sigma projects. It provides a structured roadmap for process improvement:

Define Phase

In this initial phase, the project goals, scope, and deliverables are defined. The primary focus is on understanding customer requirements and setting clear objectives.

Measure Phase

Accurate data collection is crucial. This phase involves identifying key process metrics and establishing a baseline for current performance.

Analyze Phase

Data analysis comes into play here. The team identifies root causes of defects, bottlenecks, and areas for improvement.

Improve Phase

Solutions are brainstormed, tested, and implemented during this phase. The goal is to optimize processes and enhance overall efficiency.

Control Phase

Once improvements are in place, this phase ensures that the gains are sustained over time. Monitoring mechanisms are established to prevent regression.

Benefits of Six Sigma

Implementing Six Sigma offers a plethora of advantages:

Enhanced Quality

By minimizing defects, organizations can consistently deliver high-quality products or services, building trust and loyalty among customers.

Increased Efficiency

Streamlined processes lead to reduced cycle times, increased productivity, and cost savings.

Customer Satisfaction

Meeting customer expectations consistently leads to higher satisfaction levels and positive word-of-mouth.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Decisions are backed by data, reducing subjectivity and increasing the likelihood of success.

Employee Engagement

Engaged teams collaborate effectively, driving innovation and contributing to the organization's success.

Implementing Six Sigma

While the benefits are enticing, implementing Six Sigma requires a strategic approach:

Steps to Implementation

1. Champion Support: Leadership buy-in is crucial for success. Champions drive the initiative and allocate necessary resources.
2. Team Selection and Training: Cross-functional teams with diverse skills are formed. Training equips them with Six Sigma tools and methodologies.
3. Setting Realistic Goals: Specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals are established.
4. Tools and Techniques: Various statistical tools are employed for data analysis, such as Pareto charts, Fishbone diagrams, and process maps.
5. Integration with Organizational Culture: Six Sigma principles are woven into the fabric of the organization's culture.

Industries and Applications

Six Sigma's versatility makes it applicable across industries:

Manufacturing

Manufacturing processes benefit from Six Sigma's focus on minimizing defects, reducing waste, and optimizing efficiency.

Healthcare

In healthcare, Six Sigma enhances patient care, reduces medical errors, and streamlines administrative processes.

Finance

Financial institutions use Six Sigma to improve accuracy in transactions, minimize risks, and enhance customer service.

IT and Software

Software development processes can be optimized using Six Sigma principles to deliver high-quality applications on time.

Service Sector

From hospitality to logistics, the service sector can achieve excellence in customer service and operational efficiency.

Challenges of Six Sigma

Despite its merits, Six Sigma implementation isn't without challenges:

Resistance to Change

Employees may resist new methodologies, especially if they disrupt established routines.

Overemphasis on Metrics

Focusing solely on metrics can lead to neglecting qualitative aspects that impact the overall customer experience.

Lack of Leadership Support

Without strong support from leadership, Six Sigma initiatives can lose momentum and fail to yield results.

Cultural Barriers

In multinational organizations, cultural differences can hinder seamless adoption and integration of Six Sigma.

Future Trends in Six Sigma

Six Sigma continues to evolve in response to changing business landscapes:

Digital Transformation

Integration of digital tools and automation enhances data collection and analysis, accelerating improvement efforts.

Integration with AI and Big Data

Artificial Intelligence and Big Data enable more sophisticated analysis, leading to deeper insights and better decision-making.

Sustainability and Green Six Sigma

Environmental concerns are integrated into Six Sigma methodologies, promoting sustainable and eco-friendly practices.

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The power of PRINCE2 in effective risk management

Be it big or small, every project comes with a certain amount of risk. Whether it’s a delay in delivery, a budget constraint or a change in requirements, project managers need to have an effective risk strategy in place to minimise the likelihood of risks occurring, and reducing the consequences if they do.

What is risk?

A risk is an uncertain event, or set of events, that should it occur would have an impact on the project’s objectives, either positively or negatively. This uncertainty can affect the project’s schedule, cost, quality, scope, and benefits.

What is the PRINCE2 approach to risk management?

PRINCE2 concentrates on identifying potential risks during the project planning stage. Once these have been found, prioritisation is key. PRINCE2 recommends evaluating the likelihood and impact of risks to check which of them pose the greatest threat to the project, so that resources and budgets can be allocated accordingly. All this information should then be logged in a risk register to use as a reference point throughout the project.

Mitigating risks is the next step. PRINCE2 suggests developing a risk management plan that outlines the approach for addressing and monitoring risks. This plan should include risk responses, which fall into four categories:

◉ Avoid: Adjusting the project itself to remove the source or course of a risk

◉ Reduce: Taking steps to minimise the probability of the occurrence or impact of a risk

◉ Transfer: Shifting the responsibility or consequences of a risk to a third party, such as a contractor or vendor

◉ Accept: Acknowledging that a risk exists but consciously deciding not to take any action to mitigate it

Finally, controlling risks is crucial. Regular reviews should occur to monitor risks and ensure that the mitigation strategies are working effectively. The risk register should be updated during the Controlling a Stage process to reflect changes in the risk status or to make any additions for newly identified uncertainties.

What are the benefits of using PRINCE2 to manage risk?

Adopting PRINCE2’s risk management processes offer several benefits:

• Decreases the likelihood of risk occurrence and impact: By identifying and assessing risks throughout, project teams can develop responses that help to mitigate risks before they can occur
• Limits the impact a risk has on the success of the project: Having a planned response to all risks means that when they do occur the project team can react quickly and efficiently to reduce its impact
• Ensures the project team stays focused on delivering the project’s objectives: Maintaining control over any potential risks means the project team can focus on the actions needed to deliver the project successfully
• Provides an effective mechanism for communicating risk: Encouraging regular reviews means that stakeholders are kept informed of the project’s identified risks and the team’s planned responses.

Source: prince2.com

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How is ‘change management’ addressed in PRINCE2 7?

According to this blog, 47% of organisations that used change management were more likely to achieve their objectives, compared to 30% that didn’t.

Projects are instrumental in delivering change, meaning that project managers and people who manage projects are integral in achieving it.

To help increase project success, in the latest iteration of PRINCE2, the methodology teaches project managers the skills needed to best harness and embed change within their organisation.

What is the new ‘change management approach’ in PRINCE2 7?

PRINCE2 7 defines change management as ‘the means by which an organisation transitions from its current state to the target state’.

As part of the newly introduced ‘people’ chapter, PRINCE2 7 has created a change management approach that is documented in the project initiation document. As part of this process, project managers are encouraged to consider:

• What changes will be delivered by the project?
• What skills and capabilities will be needed by the project team to successfully execute this change?
• What other areas of the organisation are likely to be impacted by the project?
• Which stakeholder relationships should be considered?
• What is the best method to ensure this transition happens smoothly?
• What resources are needed to make this change happen?

What are the benefits of effective change management?

There are many benefits to using PRINCE2 7 to successfully embed change in your organisation, including:

• Driving organisational growth
• Enhanced communication
• Ensuring a smooth transition from the current state to your desired end goal
• Faster implementation
• Increased employee buy-in and engagement
• And more!

Source: prince2.com

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The benefits of integrating AI into the PRINCE2 Framework

Artificial intelligence (AI) is causing drastic change in the business world, and this is only going to continue with an expected annual growth rate of 37.3% from 2023 to 2030. Which is no surprise when 64% expect AI to increase productivity.

Companies are quickly realising the advantages of leveraging AI and the value it can bring, but for some adopting it may seem a daunting task. By implementing AI into a structured methodology like PRINCE2, project management professionals will be able to utilise AI to its full potential.

What types of artificial intelligence are most useful for project managers?

Leveraging the right types of AI technologies, can assist with multiple elements of project management including communication, resource allocation, process automation, and more.

The types of AI that can be of most use to project managers include:

• Expert systems: Designed to mimic human expertise, providing guidance and recommendations based on a predefined set of rules expert systems can work alongside PRINCE2 to automate processes for risk management, change control and quality management. Which allows both project managers and teams to work on strategic project elements
• Natural language processing (NLP): NLP can help project managers analyse and understand textual data from various sources. In a PRINCE2 environment this could assist a project manager to enhance stakeholder communication, identify risks and critical information, and evaluate project documentation
• Chatbots and virtual assistants: AI powered chatbots can provide real-time support to project managers and team members, they can answer questions, provide status updates at project stages, and help facilitate communication between team members
• Decision support systems (DSS): DSS can aid PRINCE2 certified project managers to make informed decisions regarding project planning, resource allocation, and more, enhancing decision-making capabilities and improving overall project outcomes

What are the benefits of AI usage for PRINCE2 qualified professionals?

Adopting AI can have numerous benefits, as it enables businesses to provide better value to their customers and drive continuous improvement within the organisation. These benefits include:

• Easier risk identification and mitigation
• Enhanced data-driven decision making
• Analysing past projects to make predictions
• Improved quality management
• More accurate project planning
• Allocating resources based on team skill analysis
• And more…

Source: prince2.com

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Analysing successful examples of businesses using the PRINCE2 methodology

Effective project management is vital for any business looking to succeed. Which is why PRINCE2 is one of the most commonly used frameworks for project management in organisations around the world.

In this blog, we will be looking at successful examples of projects and organisations that have used PRINCE2, and evaluating how the methodology helped them to achieve their goals.

The construction of Heathrow Airport Terminal 5

The construction of Terminal 5 (T5) was a large-scale project that successfully applied the PRINCE2 methodology in its planning, execution, and delivery with the themes and principles incorporated throughout its lifecycle.

This was done in multiple ways:

◉ Regular reviews: The project board regularly reviewed the project’s benefits against its costs and risks, making informed decisions about its viability and ensuring its continued business justification

◉ Incorporated lessons learnt: The team reflected on lessons that had been learnt from previous airport construction projects and as a result utilised new construction techniques, materials, and technologies to improve efficiency and reduce risk

◉ Established roles and responsibilities: There was a clear structure outlined from the outset including a project board, dedicated project manager and multiple teams focused on executing different elements of the construction

◉ Managed in stages: The overall construction of T5 was split into distinct stages, including design, procurement, construction, and commission, and each one had its own objectives, deliverables, and performance criteria

The construction of Terminal 5 was a high-risk project, with the potential for significant delays and cost overruns. Using PRINCE2 to manage this project significantly contributed to its success, as the methodology brought clarity to its objectives and provided a structured approach to project governance, which ensured the construction was completed within budget, scope and on time.

The organisation of the London 2012 Summer Olympics

The London 2012 Summer Olympics saw thousands of athletes and visitors from around the world flocking to the city to witness the games. Given the scale of this event, a structured approach to project management was essential to ensuring it was co-ordinated and delivered on time and within budget. The Olympic Delivery Authority (ODA) used PRINCE2 to govern and manage the entire project.

There were multiple key factors from the PRINCE2 methodology that supported the successful execution of the London 2012 Olympics:

• Managed in stages: Dividing the project into stages, such as planning, construction, event execution and post-event activities, allowed the event team to effectively monitor and control the progress of the project at regular intervals in its timeline
• Developed successful stakeholder relationships: Forging strong relationships with stakeholders, such as national and international sports organisations, sponsors, and local communities, to ensure they were involved and engaged throughout the planning process
• Effective risk management: A project of this scale has inherent risks, such as bad weather, security threats, and infrastructure failures. PRINCE2 provided a systematic approach to identifying, assessing, and managing these risks allowing the project team to develop contingency plans and mitigate the impacts of unforeseen events.
• Clear and open communications: There was effective communication and consistent reporting. Teams involved were in different locations and working on various elements of the project. Making using of PRINCE2 meant that good channels for communication were established early on providing an essential tool for tracking progress and reporting to more senior stakeholders

Using PRINCE2 to manage the London 2012 Summer Olympics proved to be invaluable. Its structured methodology ensured that each phase was precisely planned, monitored, and evaluated.

Which other companies use PRINCE2?

Aside from these two examples, there are many globally renowned companies that implement PRINCE2 to ensure the successful execution of their projects. This includes:

• Barclays
• BT
• Rolls-Royce
• The NHS
• Vodafone
• And many more

Source: prince2.com

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ICBB Certification: Unlock How It Transforms Your Career

The IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt ICBB is an expert in the Lean Six Sigma Methodology and spearheads intricate enhancement projects, usually on a full-time basis. Such a professional has a comprehensive grasp of the Lean Six Sigma approach, including a deep competency in the areas covered within the Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, and Control (DMAIC) stages as outlined by the IASSC Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Body of Knowledge. They are adept at executing, conducting, understanding, and applying Lean Six Sigma with a high degree of expertise.

What Is the ICBB Exam Structure?

The IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt exam consists of 150 questions and is a supervised, closed-book test with a duration of 4 hours. Some versions of this test might have an extra 15 questions that are not graded. The exam includes roughly 30 multiple-choice and true/false queries from each primary section of the IASSC Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Body of Knowledge. It's available in over 8,000 Test Centers across 165 countries globally. Additionally, it can be taken through the PeopleCert Online Proctoring system and is also offered by numerous IASSC Accredited Providers.

Reasons to Achieve the IASSC ICBB Certification:

In the dynamic world of process improvement and operational efficiency, the IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification, often called the ICBB certification, emerges as a gold standard of expertise and skill. But what sets the ICBB certification apart, and why should ambitious professionals consider achieving it? Let's explore.

1. The Pinnacle of Global Excellence:

The IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certification isn't just another accolade; it epitomizes a global benchmark of excellence. Garnering international recognition indicates that its bearer understands the Lean Six Sigma methodology and is adept at leading intricate improvement projects.

2. Elevate Your Career with the ICBB Certification:

Having a distinct edge is crucial in today's fiercely competitive professional arena. Those with ICBB certification often have a significant advantage in career prospects. Recognizing the value and expertise of an ICBB certification holder, organizations frequently offer them premium compensation, coveted roles, and accelerated career growth.

3. ICBB Certification: A Testament to Mastery Over Lean Six Sigma Tools:

The rigorous training and examination process for the ICBB certification ensures that certified individuals are thoroughly versed in the essential tools and techniques of Lean Six Sigma. From mastering the DMAIC framework to deploying advanced statistical tools, an individual with the certification is equipped to navigate the complexities of process enhancement.

4. Leadership and the IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification:

Beyond its technical dimensions, the ICBB certification also emphasizes leadership. Certified professionals are not only masters of the methodology but also emerge as leaders, capable of guiding teams, orchestrating transformative change, and ensuring that improvements are sustainable and impactful.

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5. Making an Organizational Impact with the ICBB Certification:

An individual with the ICBB certification is an asset to themselves and their entire organization. By streamlining processes, enhancing efficiency, and bolstering quality, they play a pivotal role in augmenting customer satisfaction, reducing operational costs, and improving profitability.

6. A Commitment to Continuous Learning:

The domain of Lean Six Sigma is ever-evolving. Holding the certification signifies a commitment to lifelong learning. With the field continually advancing, ICBB-certified professionals are always aligned with the latest developments, ensuring they remain at the forefront of industry best practices.

7. ICBB Certification: Your Gateway to a Global Community:

Achieving the ICBB certification provides access to a global network of Lean Six Sigma enthusiasts. This community is invaluable for knowledge sharing, mentorship opportunities, and even exploring new career horizons.

8. Structured Problem-Solving with the ICBB Certification:

One of the standout skills honed during the ICBB certification journey is a structured approach to problem-solving. This ensures that challenges are addressed holistically, targeting the root cause and ensuring they don't resurface.

9. ICBB Certification and a Customer-Centric Vision:

The customer is at the heart of Lean Six Sigma and, by extension, the ICBB certification. Certified professionals are trained to consistently prioritize the customer, ensuring all process enhancements align with customer needs and deliver superior value.

10. A Catalyst for Personal Growth:

While the ICBB certification offers many professional advantages, it's also a journey of personal growth. The discipline, meticulous training, and challenges faced and conquered during the ICBB certification process foster resilience, determination, and a growth-oriented mindset.

Concluding Thoughts:

The IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification, or the ICBB certification, is more than just a reflection of one's expertise in Lean Six Sigma. It symbolizes a professional's unwavering commitment to excellence, relentless pursuit of continuous improvement, and passion for making a tangible difference. Whether you're a professional seeking to elevate your career, an organization aiming to drive unparalleled efficiency, or someone with a passion for excellence, the IASSC Certified Lean Six Sigma Black Belt is a beacon guiding you toward your goals.

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PRINCE2 7: Your questions answered

PRINCE2 is one of the most widely used project management methodologies globally, helping organisations to run projects that reach time, budget, and quality requirements. The framework has been through many iterations since its initial launch in 1996, with the current 6th Edition launched in 2017. But as the industry changes, the guidance needs to adapt as well, which is why PRINCE2® 7 is coming in Autumn 2023!

To help project professionals understand the changes that are coming with this new edition, we have answered some of the frequently asked questions regarding the update.

What are the key changes from PRINCE2 6th edition to PRINCE2 7?

To ensure the framework remains in-line with this fast-moving industry, changes have been made to the methodology.

• Sustainability has been added as a further aspect of project performance
• A digital and data management approach is now included
• Elements of the content and language have been simplified to make it more accessible
• A focus on people has been integrated throughout the methodology

How does the new edition of PRINCE2 address current trends and challenges in project management, such as agile and digital transformation?

PRINCE2 7 provides guidance on integrating Agile practices and implementing digital transformation projects, ensuring project managers are equipped with the tools needed to manage a project effectively in this rapidly changing technological age. It teaches professionals how to effectively tailor the methodology for these types of projects offering practical case studies to advise them on successful delivery.

What are the benefits of PRINCE2 7 for project managers?

As with all previous iterations of PRINCE2, the 7th Edition provides project managers with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully guide their team through any project. Taking into consideration additional elements such as sustainability and data management, this updated version ensures a project manager remains adaptable and continues to succeed in changing business environments.

What are the course durations for both Foundation and Practitioner?

If you opt for a virtual or classroom course, Foundation training lasts 3 days, and for Practitioner its 2 days. Or you can combine the two in a week-long intensive course.

Alternatively, if you purchase our e-learning, you will have 12 months to complete the training and take your exam.

How long does the PRINCE2 7 Foundation exam take?

The Foundation exam is a closed book, multiple choice exam that will take 60 minutes.

How long does the PRINCE2 7 Practitioner exam last?

The Practitioner exam lasts 2 and a half hours, and is an open book exam with a scenario from the PRINCE2 7 Official Book used.

What is the exam pass mark?

The pass mark for both exams is 60%.

Are there any prerequisites for the course?

There are no prerequisites for the Foundation course, meaning you can start training in PRINCE2 7 regardless of your experience level. However, for the Practitioner course, you will need to have certified in one of the below before you can book training.

◉ PRINCE2 6th Edition (Foundation or Practitioner)

◉ PRINCE2 7 Foundation

◉ Project Management Qualification (PMQ)

◉ Project Professional Qualification (PPQ)

◉ Project Management Professional (PMP)

◉ Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)

◉ IPMA Level A (Certified Projects Director)

◉ IPMA Level B (Certified Senior Project Manager)

◉ IPMA Level C (Certified Project Manager)

◉ IPMA Level D (Certified Project Management Associate)

I already have PRINCE2 6th Edition Foundation, which Practitioner course should I do next?

While you can go straight into PRINCE2 7 Practitioner, we would recommend doing PRINCE2 6th Edition Practitioner. This version is still valid and relevant, and will set you up for success in project management. We would then suggest moving over to PRINCE2 7 when you need to renew your certification, which will be after three years.

What training is available?

We will be offering training in PRINCE2 7th Edition via these training methods:

◉ E-learning: Self-paced, digital teaching material that allows you learn the methodology at a time and place that suits you.

◉ Virtual courses: Learn from our expert trainers from the comfort of you own home.

◉ Classroom training: Travel to one of our in-person training sessions where you’ll learn from our knowledgeable trainers in a collaborative environment of other learners.

◉ Blended courses: Experience the best of both worlds with our blended learning approach. Develop the knowledge explored in PRINCE2 7 Foundation using our engaging e-learning, before moving into a virtual or in-person classroom for the Practitioner course.

Source: prince2.com

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Overview of the ‘people’ integrated element within PRINCE2 7

For two consecutive years, our research has found that management and leadership skills are the most in demand within organisations.

These types of skills, considered as ‘soft skills’ (also known as “people skills” or “interpersonal skills”), have become increasingly important in the fast-evolving and increasingly complex world in which we live and work. As they help to ensure that working relationships thrive, because they encompass areas including:

• Collaboration
• Communication
• Emotional Intelligence
• Leadership
• Problem solving
• Teamwork
• And more…

As defined by this 2023 Forbes article, soft skills ‘are a set of personal attributes and abilities that allow individuals to effectively interact with others in a professional setting.’

And while hard to define, these skills will help leaders, managers, teams and individuals to build strong relationships that enable success.

The new ‘people’ integrated element within PRINCE2 7

With the increasing need for these skills, it is no surprise that a new introduction within the PRINCE2 7 guidance is the ‘people’ integrated element, which sits at the heart of the other four integrated elements – “principles”, “practices” (formally called the 7 themes), “processes” and “project context”.

Project management practices have evolved. But projects also involve people; and their effectiveness and outcomes are impacted by how well they are managed and how the established teams work together to deliver them – making it vital that strong relationships are built.

These are often comprised of cross-functional internal employees as well, and (when required) external suppliers, partners, and communities. Which is why the ‘people’ element covers all of these stakeholders, and their relationships.

So, how does the ‘people’ element benefit individuals and organisations?

• Build collaboration across cross-functional teams and stakeholders. The inclusion of this element teaches project managers guidance for effectively managing teams and stakeholders, so that projects realise their intended benefit(s), meet goals, and achieve better outcomes. Project managers will gain a greater understanding of the project requirements, the stakeholders they need to engage with to build effective teams, and how to manage these team relationships to get the best out them. The ‘people’ element also teaches project managers essential communication skills that will ensure project success
• Drive change and ensure its successfully embedded. PRINCE2 7th Edition recognises the important role project managers and people who manage projects play when leading, delivering, and ensuring change is embedded within organisations. This is why the new PRINCE2 7 ‘change management approach’, that forms part of the PID (project initiation document) is a management product that sits within this new chapter on ‘people’
• Establish a successful project culture. Projects are temporary and made up of teams from different areas of the business, who will often have competing priorities, vary in seniority, and sometimes have a different working culture. The ‘people’ integrated element in the 7th Edition helps to address this. As the guidance teaches skills to help project managers establish a project culture that motivates people and promotes a shared understanding. It also identifies that ways of working should evolve to reflect the way a project culture evolves, and be aligned to how teams and individuals are working together

Source: prince2.com

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PRINCE2 7th Edition is launching in the Autumn! But what’s new?

PRINCE2 is one of the most widely used project management methodologies globally. It provides individuals and organisations with a tailorable and structured approach that can be adapted for managing different projects of many sizes and complexities.

For example, in the UK, PRINCE2 is used by large organisations in many industries, such as Barclays, BT, Rolls-Royce, The NHS and Vodafone. It was also used to manage the construction of Heathrow’s Terminal 5 (T5), and to manage one of the biggest sporting events in British history, the London 2012 Summer Olympics!

However, in order to support organisations and individuals for the challenges that they are facing today and will be facing in the future, PRINCE2 has had an update!

But this is an evolution, rather than a revolution, of this essential project management methodology. A methodology that is relied upon by many to help projects run on time, to budget, within scope and up to quality and standard.

What’s new in the PRINCE2 7th Edition?

The updates that have been made add a new dimension to the guidance and add value for organisations and individuals alike.

There has been some valuable adaptions and simplification of some of the language and content throughout, to make the methodology and guidance more accessible and relevant for project managers and people who manage projects. But other notable updates are:

• The inclusion of an introduction within the first chapter, which defines what a project is and what project management is
• An additional ‘people integrated element’ that sits at the heart of the other four integrated elements – the 7 principles, 7 practices (formally called the 7 themes), 7 processes and project context
• Four new management approaches that all form part of the PID (Project initiation documentation), called the ‘change management approach’, the 'commercial management approach', the ‘data management approach’ and the 'sustainability management approach'
• And there’s an additional performance target for ‘sustainability’, in addition to ‘benefits, costs, time, quality, scope and risk’

Why has PRINCE2 been updated?

A few factors will have influenced the evolution of the PRINCE2 methodology, to recognise that things have changed since it’s last impression. Factors such as new technologies; the environment and climate change; ethics and changing consumer and corporate attitudes; new government, national and local regulations; new working practices and remote/hybrid working.

Also, there’s an increasing need for individuals to develop soft skills, including leadership, that the ‘people integrated element’ helps to address.

From an organisational perspective, the same drivers as above will have influenced the evolution. But this update will help to increase collaboration with cross-functional project teams, improve communications, enable a better understanding of all stakeholder needs, and will help to co-create an organisational culture where change is embedded and realised more effectively.

When will PRINCE2 7th Edition launch?

Individuals and organisations will be able to start training in the PRINCE2 7th Edition in September 2023, but both Foundation and Practitioner are available for pre-sale here.

Source: prince2.com

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