the Lead Coach




programme management
Programme Management is the process of coordinating and overseeing multiple related projects to achieve specific goals. It involves planning and managing resources to ensure that everything runs smoothly and efficiently. Essentially, it's like being a conductor of an orchestra, making sure all the different parts work together to create a harmonious outcome. ​It requires a number of different skills including Managing Benefits, Stakeholders, Risks, & Governance. It requires the skill to write in-depth Business Cases amongst other essential documents.​
Programme management is not merely managing individual projects in isolation; it focuses on aligning multiple projects with strategic objectives. It is not about day-to-day routine operations or micromanaging teams, but rather about overseeing the bigger picture and ensuring that resources are utilised effectively across projects. Additionally, it is not solely concerned with timelines and budgets; also involves managing stakeholder relationships and delivering value to the organization
Benefits Management is the process of making sure that a project or programme delivers the expected advantages and value. It involves identifying, planning, and tracking the benefits throughout the programmes lifecycle. Essentially, it helps organisations ensure that they achieve their goals and get the most out of their investments. By focusing on the outcomes, Benefits Management allows teams to adjust their strategies to success.
Stakeholder management is the process of identifying,, and engaging with the people who have an interest in a project or programme or organisation. This includes anyone who can or be affected it, like employees, customers, suppliers, and the community. By keeping open communication and building positive relationships with these individuals, organisations can ensure that everyone is on the same page and that potential issues are identified early on. Ultimately, good stakeholder management helps to keep things running smoothly and successfully.
Risk management is the process of identifying, assessing, and prioritising potential risks that could negatively impact a project, programme or organisation. It involves developing strategies to minimise or control these risks, ensuring that any potential problems are addressed before they become serious issues (see below). Essentially, it's about being proactive to protect assets and achieve goals more safely.
​An issue is a risk which has actually happened
A business case is a document that outlines the justification for a programme or project initiative. It presents the rationale for undertaking the initiative, including its benefits, costs, risks, and potential returns on investment. The purpose of a business case is to guide decision-makers in evaluating whether to proceed the proposed project and to ensure that resources are allocated effectively
Governance refers to the way rules, actions, and decisions are made in a programme, project or an organisation. It involves the processes through which authority is exercised and the relationships between different stakeholders, such as government, businesses, and citizens. Good governance ensures that resources are effectively employed, laws are upheld, and everyone has a voice in decision-making. Essentially, it's about how things are run and ensuring fairness and accountability.
A change initiative is typically structured in several key phases. First, it begins with identifying the need for change and setting clear objectives. Next, a detailed plan is developed, outlining the steps, resources, and timelines required to implement the change. Communication plays a vital role during this phase to ensure all stakeholders are engaged. Once the plan is in place, the initiative is delivered through execution, which involves training and supporting employees, monitoring progress, and adjusting strategies as needed. Finally, the initiative concludes with an evaluation to assess its impact and gather feedback for future improvements.
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Depending upon the size and impact of the change, it can be managed with project management tools or alternatively a wide reaching change might require several projects set up and as such should be managed with a Programme Management structure. Both of which should be delivered alongside business as usual with minimal impact.
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