In the fast-paced world of project management, staying updated with the latest methodologies and certifications is crucial to ensuring the success of your projects. In September the new PRINCE2 Edition 7 Certification will be launched. Although one of the oldest project management certifications, this new edition shows that it is still relevant and useful in today’s project environment.
What is PRINCE2
Before diving into the new features of PRINCE2 Edition 7, let’s briefly recap what PRINCE2 is all about. PRINCE2, which stands for PRojects IN Controlled Environments, is a globally recognised project management methodology that provides a structured approach to managing projects. It offers a clear framework with defined processes, roles, and responsibilities, making it an invaluable tool for ensuring project success.
New Features in PRINCE2 Edition 7:
- Flexibility and Tailoring: PRINCE2 Edition 7 emphasises the importance of tailoring the methodology to suit the unique requirements of each project. It recognises that not all projects are the same, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t always work. This edition provides guidance on how to tailor PRINCE2 principles and processes while still adhering to the core framework.
- Focus on Principles: PRINCE2 Edition 7 places a renewed focus on the seven underlying principles of the methodology. These principles serve as the foundation for effective project management and include concepts such as continued business justification, learn from experience, defined roles and responsibilities, manage by stages, manage by exception, focus on products, and tailor to suit the project environment. Understanding and applying these principles will lead to more successful project outcomes.
- Practical Guidance: This edition offers practical guidance on how to apply PRINCE2 in various project environments and scenarios. Real-world examples and case studies provide insights into how the principles and processes can be adapted to achieve success in different contexts.
- Enhanced Guidance on Tailoring: Edition 7 provides detailed guidance on how to tailor PRINCE2 based on factors such as project size, complexity, industry, and organisational culture. This ensures that the methodology remains relevant and effective for projects of all scales and types.
- Digital Integration: Recognising the increasing influence of technology on project management, PRINCE2 Edition 7 includes guidance on integrating digital tools and techniques into the methodology. This empowers project managers to leverage the benefits of digital advancements while maintaining the integrity of the PRINCE2 approach.
- Clarity and Accessibility: The new edition features improved clarity in its guidance and language, making it more accessible to individuals across different levels of project management experience. Whether you’re new to PRINCE2 or a seasoned practitioner, the Edition 7 materials are designed to be user-friendly and informative.
- Alignment with Other Frameworks: PRINCE2 Edition 7 acknowledges the importance of complementing other project management frameworks and methodologies. It offers guidance on how to integrate PRINCE2 with Agile, Scrum, and other approaches, enabling project managers to create hybrid models that best suit their project’s needs.
Is PRINCE2 Still Worth IT?
Recruiters continue to use PRINCE2 to judge knowledge level and edition 7 seems to be addressing the fact that Project Managers operate in a rapidly evolving business landscape, and need tools that can adapt and deliver consistent results. The new edition which launches in September will allow project managers to incorporate digital and data management, in a framework that can be adapted to work with other approaches. These new additions should better equip Project Manager’s to lead their teams with confidence, tailor their approaches for maximum impact, and drive projects towards successful outcomes.
