Prince2 is a proven best practice methodology for the delivery of projects. The method is based on a set of principles, a series of processes (nothing too demanding) and focuses on scope as the main driver for project success. This provides the basis for best practice for project management and Prince2 is used widely in Ireland and the UK in the construction sector.
One of the reasons it is very suitable to construction projects is the scope (or product) focus.
Given this product focus (what is to be delivered), Prince2 can assist your business with not only the delivery of the project but with project selection also. And since your business is dependent on projects to generate income it is vital you choose the right tenders to pursue, those which will benefit your business most and bring you the greatest reward.
The Prince2 Project Brief forms part of the Prince2 approach and is the very first document to be produced when considering projects to pursue. It is a lightweight document designed to guide you in the right direction and be quick and simple to develop and understand.
What should the Project Brief include?
- A basic high-level understanding of the project based on the client tender or discussions.
- Identification of the End User
- Project timescales (a rough order of magnitude)
- Your team most appropriate to complete the project
- Your approach to delivering the project (i.e. amount of subcontracting if any, new skills and new hires required)
- Major risks this project could pose to your business (tie up resources, severe schedule, vague objectives, bottlenecks etc)
- The benefits this project will bring (including non-cashable)
How to develop your Project Brief
Step 1 – Gather key information about the project such as expectations, acceptance criteria and a list of critical stakeholders
Step 2 – Identify the objectives of the project. These might be described as outcomes. If so dig into them and identify tangible elements. Produce a bullet list if possible
Step 3 – Identify the major benefits to your business for taking on the project. An important benefit might be a learning experience.
Step 4 – If possible take out the major dependencies for your business if undertaking the project. This might include early or incremental delivery of the objectives.
How to Present your Project Brief?
- Word or Excel document
- Powerpoint presentation
- Entry into a project management tool
The Project Brief should be completed by the person most capability of identifying the fundamentals of each client tender and have a thorough understanding of how your business operates, it’s capability and where the business is going.
The Benefits to You
If you develop the ability to use the Project Brief to suit your business tendering requirements it will offer benefits such as:
- Business focused tendering
- Identification of the right projects for your business to undertake
- Avoidance of projects containing vague and poorly identified requirements
- Avoidance of unsuitable projects for your business
At studyonline.ie we offer fully accredited Prince2 courses which not only assist you to gain a globally recognised project management certification, but also guide you in the use of Prince2 to successfully delivery your projects. This include templates for the Project Brief and guidance on its use.
