Shorter is definitely better - Managing Successful Programme Pocketbook Review
by Melanie Franklin, MAVEN TRAINING
At first glance you wonder if such a slim volume can possibly contain any useful information. However, the small number of pages certainly encouraged me to open the book, and in these days of information overload, shorter is definitely better. The pocketbook begins by addressing the benefits of managing programmes using the MSP approach. This is a useful list - reminding the reader why programme management is different to project management.
I thought the point about 'smooth transition from current to future business operations through the clear recognition of the need to prepare the organisation for migration to new ways of working' is especially important as it shows how programme management goes further than project management in covering the transition activities that must take place after the closure of each project so that outputs of each project can be properly assimilated and the benefits realised. This leads onto the subject of benefits realisation, which is a real buzz word at the moment, and its helpful that this pocketbook explains in simple terms what this phrase means.
The MSP concepts are clearly explained in short phrases, well spaced in the book so that it is easy on the eye and easy to grasp. One of the most critical points is that 'the programme should be concerned with risks and issues that cannot be contained at the project level' and is another clear reminder of why programme management is different to project management. The seven principles of MSP are all included, and there is even room for the organisation diagram - which is great shorthand for identifying what is needed above and beyond a simple project management structure. Finally, there is a diagram of the 'process model' showing how each of the six MSP processes fit together, with a straightforward explanation to accompany each process.
All in all, a very useful little guide that will whet your appetite for finding out more about MSP.
