
1. MoP® Official resources
1.1. MoP® sample exams, available online
1.1.1. Foundation
1.1.1.1. http://online.apmg-exams.com/index.aspx?subid=98&masterid=32
1.2. MoP® examination syllabus
1.2.1. http://www.mop-officialsite.com/nmsruntime/saveasdialog.aspx?lID=74&sID=42
1.3. MoP® glossary
1.3.1. http://www.mop-officialsite.com/nmsruntime/saveasdialog.aspx?lID=105&sID=40
1.4. MoP® website
1.4.1. http://www.mop-officialsite.com/
2. MoP® Official publications
2.1. Management of Portfolios
2.1.1. ISBN-13: 978-0113312948
2.1.2. Published: 2011
2.1.3. Pages: 153
2.1.4. http://www.amazon.co.uk/Management-portfolios-Stephen-Jenner/dp/0113312946
2.1.5. The most important, key position on MoP® preparing for exams Foundation and Practitioner.
2.2. An Executive Guide to Portfolio Management
2.2.1. ISBN-13: 978-0113312603
2.2.2. Published: 2010
2.2.3. Pages: 36
2.2.4. http://www.amazon.co.uk/An-executive-guide-portfolio-management/dp/0113312601
3. MoP® - process based standard and framework (not methodology) for general (not industry specific e.g. IT or Engineering) corporate-wide / holistic Portfolio Management. MoP® is one of the 12 recognized globally and practically proven management standards from AXELOS® Global Best Practice family of UK standards.
3.1. MoP® first and current version was published in 02.2011.
3.2. How MoP® fits into AXELOS® Global Best Practices family of UK standards.
3.2.1. MoP® in AXELOS® Global Best Practices family
3.3. AXELOS® Global Best Practices family of standards from UK.
3.3.1. PRINCE2® Agile
3.3.1.1. see PRINCE2® Agile mind map
3.3.2. ITIL®
3.3.2.1. see ITIL® mindmap
3.3.3. M_o_R® - Management of Risk
3.3.3.1. see M_o_R® mindmap
3.3.4. MoV® - Management of Value
3.3.4.1. see MoV® mindmap
3.3.5. MoP® - Management of Portfolios
3.3.5.1. see MoP® mindmap
3.3.6. MSP® - Managing Successful Programmes
3.3.6.1. see MSP® mindmap
3.3.7. PRINCE2® - PRojects IN Changing Environments
3.3.7.1. see PRINCE2® mindmap
3.3.8. P3O® - Portfolio, Programme and Project Office
3.3.8.1. see P3O® mindmap
3.3.9. yet remember - "In reality there are no such things as best practices. There are only practices that are good within a certain context."
3.4. Since 2000 the Office of Government Commerce (OGC), former owner of PRINCE2® (and other Best Management Practices) has been the custodian of the portfolio on behalf of UKG. In June 2010 as a result of UKG reorganisation the Minister for the Cabinet Office announced that the PRINCE2® functions have moved into Cabinet Office.
3.4.1. AXELOS are a new joint venture company, created by the Cabinet Office on behalf of Her Majesty’s Government (HMG) in the United Kingdom and Capita plc to run the Best Management Practice portfolio, now called AXELOS Global Best Practice
3.4.2. https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/best-management-practice-portfolio/about-the-office-of-government-commerce
4. MoP® Foundation courseware
5. This freeware, non-commercial mind map (aligned with the newest version of MoP®) was carefully hand crafted with passion and love for learning and constant improvement as well for promotion the standard and framework MoP® and as a learning tool for candidates wanting to gain MoP® qualification. (please share, like and give feedback - your feedback and comments are my main motivation for further elaboration. THX!)
5.1. Questions / issues / errors? What do you think about my work? Your comments are highly appreciated. Feel free to visit my website: www.miroslawdabrowski.com
5.1.1. http://www.miroslawdabrowski.com
5.1.2. http://www.linkedin.com/in/miroslawdabrowski
5.1.3. https://www.google.com/+MiroslawDabrowski
5.1.4. https://play.spotify.com/user/miroslawdabrowski/
5.1.5. https://twitter.com/mirodabrowski
5.1.6. miroslaw_dabrowski
6. MoP® consists of: 5 Principles, 2 Portfolio Management Cycles, 12 Portfolio Practices, 6 Key Functions, 3 Portfolio Approaches, 7 Steps, 5 Roles, 9 Documents.
6.1. Download: Best Management Practice - MoP Overview presentation [2011]
7. Steps in a evolutionary implementation of MoP® (7)
7.1. 1. Obtain a single, complete view of the organization’s portfolio of change initiatives - inc. costs, benefits, schedule, risks and performance to date
7.1.1. Benefit - Savings from removing duplicate, non-strategically aligned and poorly performing initiatives - and in so doing, improved deliverability
7.2. 2. Complete a portfolio delivery plan and monitor progress against it on a regular basis
7.2.1. Benefit - Implementing regular progress reporting will highlight gaps and stimulate questions and debate
7.3. 3. Start tracking completed programme and project performance compared to forecast and use this in initiative forecasting
7.3.1. Benefits - Improved business case forecasting and so improved investment appraisal and portfolio prioritization; the act of implementing rigorous evaluation will send clear messages that portfolio management means a more disciplined, end-to-end, and evidence-based approach to managing change; and it will also help ensure more robust and reliable business cases
7.4. 4. Review the current portfolio and identify dependencies - not only those where one initiative is dependent on the output of another, but also where several initiatives make calls upon a limited resource
7.4.1. Benefits - improved understanding across the portfolio and so earlier resolution of potential problems
7.5. 5. Establish clear governance structures so that stakeholders understand where decisions are made and using what criteria
7.5.1. Benefits: This helps ensure decision-makers get the information they require to manage the portfolio
7.6. 6. Define a standard set of investment criteria including attractiveness / return and achievability / risk in terms of the incremental impact on the existing portfolio, to be used to appraise and prioritize initiatives
7.6.1. Benefits: This helps ensure that limited resources are allocated with maximum impact
7.7. 7. Apply staged release of funding linked to stage / phase gates
7.7.1. Benefits - Investment of resources is linked to confidence in successful delivery; rigorous start gates ensure that programmes and projects are initiated in a controlled manner
8. MoP® Portfolio Management Principles (5)
8.1. What are principles?
8.1.1. Watch: 5 key principles of MoP® - Latte experience of Management of Portfolios (MoP®) from CC Learning (by Elissa Farrow)
8.1.2. Principles are universally applicable statements.
8.1.2.1. Principles are generic principles - the way in which they are applied must be tailored to suit the organizational circumstances, whilst ensuring the underlying rationale is maintained.
8.1.2.2. Prainciples are the common, universal and high-level factors that underpin success.
8.1.2.3. They provide guidance to organizations.
8.1.2.4. They guide the organization on what to aim for.
8.2. 1. Senior Management Commitment
8.2.1. Senior managers should (amongst others) publicly champion and positively communicate about the value of portfolio management, participate in decision-making about the composition of the portfolio, explaining the rationale for decisions, and take a portfolio-wide rather than a departmental or individual perspective.
8.2.2. Any change initiative struggles without it, so top-level support comes first in MoP®’s list. Change initiatives must have public champions to communicate the value and benefits of Portfolio management. They need to use both the stick and carrot - ensuring compliance with PfM standards and personally demonstrating the behaviors essential to the success of the Portfolio.
8.2.2.1. No ‘pet projects’ - not even the Chief Executive's!
8.2.3. Keys to Success
8.2.3.1. Senior management champion
8.2.3.1.1. A management board member champions the implementation of Portfolio Management
8.2.3.2. Publicly championing the value of portfolio management
8.2.3.3. Clearly defined roles, responsibilities and accountabilities
8.2.3.3.1. The roles of key positions are clearly defined and understood
8.2.3.4. Explaining the rationale of decisions to their staff
8.2.3.5. Active engagement in creating decision-making structure
8.2.3.5.1. The management board makes decisions regarding prioritization of change initiatives and allocation/re-allocation of funds
8.2.3.6. Participating in decision-making
8.2.3.7. A compelling vision for the portfolio
8.2.3.7.1. So senior managers can see how it relates to the organization’s strategic objectives
8.2.3.8. Alignment with the reward and recognition strategies
8.2.3.8.1. Reflecting new ways of working and required [corporate] behaviours in senior managers’ personal objectives
8.2.3.9. Ensuring compliance with porfolio governance
8.2.3.10. Walk the Talk
8.3. 2. Governance Alignment
8.3.1. Effective portfolio governance reflects and is consistent with the wider organizational governance model.
8.3.2. Without proper governance - including clarity about what decisions are made - PfM will fail. MoP® provides examples and diagrams of a successful Portfolio governance structure - from Programme and Project mangers up through the Portfolio Progress Group to the Director / Investment Committee level.
8.3.2.1. Supporting these are the P3O® model and, working alongside them: Business As Usual areas which will be impacted by the change.
8.3.2.2. A full set of role descriptions are provided in the MoP® manual as ready-to-use templates
8.3.3. Keys to Success
8.3.3.1. Clearly defined roles, responsibilities and accountabilities
8.3.3.1.1. Particularly in relation to what decisions are made, where, and who is involved
8.3.3.2. Portfolio governance is consistent with the wider organizational governance structure
8.3.3.2.1. Including for financial, risk and performance management
8.3.3.3. Shared understanding
8.3.3.3.1. Stakeholders should be able to describe how and where portfolio decisions are made
8.3.3.4. Agreed escalations process
8.3.3.4.1. To facilitate more effective, coordinated decision making due to the consideration of consistent data
8.3.3.5. Aligned meetings schedules
8.3.3.5.1. To facilitate more effective, coordinated decision making due to the consideration of consistent data
8.3.3.6. Sub-portfolios are periodically reviewed by the organizational portfolio governance body
8.3.3.6.1. To ensure: they are consistent with the organizational portfolio; initiatives are not being deliberately disaggregated to avoid portfolio governance; and investment decisions are optimal at the sub-portfolio/departmental level and at the organizational or corporate portfolio level.
8.4. 3. Strategy Alignment
8.4.1. The ultimate objective of portfolio management is to facilitate the achievement of strategic objectives.
8.4.2. Change initiatives which do not deliver benefit = waste and confusion. The ultimate objective of PfM is to achieve the strategic objectives of the organization. MoP® suggests a driver based model starting with very high level strategy, down to strategic objective then benefits and finally, change initiatives that will deliver them.
8.4.2.1. It provides useful, practical, examples for the private and public sectors.
8.4.3. Keys to Success
8.4.3.1. Strategic objectives are supported by driver-based analysis.
8.4.3.1.1. To make the implicit value/logic chain explicit.
8.4.3.2. Benefits are clearly and consistently identified.
8.4.3.2.1. So the contribution of initiatives to strategic objectives is clear and Initiatives can be appraised and prioritized on a level playing field.
8.4.3.3. Collaborative working with strategic planning.
8.4.3.3.1. The Portfolio Office works closely with strategic planning and performance management departments/functions in linking the forecast impact of the portfolio with the strategic objectives and performance targets
8.4.3.4. Regular review at a portfolio level.
8.4.3.4.1. To ensure the portfolio remains aligned with the strategic objectives.
8.4.3.5. Regular review at an initiative level.
8.4.3.5.1. The strategic alignment of individual initiatives is reviewed at key points in the project life cycle via regular stage/phase gates.
8.4.3.6. Early involvement improves quality.
8.4.3.6.1. Involvement of key departments/functions that will appraise potential investments early in the development of the business case enhances collaborative working and the quality of business cases.
8.5. 4. Portfolio Office
8.5.1. The ultimate objective of portfolio management is to facilitate the achievement of strategic objectives.
8.5.2. There has to be a business area which provides up to date and accurate information to allow good decision making by Portfolio Managers. This is the role of the Portfolio Office and this MoP® principle is strongly linked to the AXELOS standard: P3O®. MoP shows different P3O® models including linked (but temporary) Programme and Project offices as well the permanent Portfolio office and aligned Centre of Excellence (CoE)
8.5.3. Keys to Success
8.5.3.1. Organizational status
8.5.3.1.1. The Portfolio Office reports directly to the management board and is independent of PPM delivery responsibility to ensure its analyses are objective; to help overcome silo-based interests; and to demonstrate the importance of effective Portfolio Management to the organization
8.5.3.2. An agreed mandate
8.5.3.2.1. The management board agree the Portfolio Office Terms of Reference, Vision and Blueprint
8.5.3.3. Collaborative working with BAU and other departments
8.5.3.3.1. With functions such as BAU, strategic/business planning, budgeting and resource allocation, project and programme management, performance management, and corporate governance
8.5.3.4. Appropriately skilled and experienced
8.5.3.4.1. To ensure its reports are credible. These skills include: strategic planning, investment appraisal, programme and project management, risk management, benefits management and financial management
8.5.3.5. Regular measurement of progress
8.5.3.5.1. The Portfolio Office regularly reviews progress and adapts its activities, and the Portfolio Management processes, accordingly
8.6. 5. Energized Change Culture
8.6.1. The extent to which an organization (division or team) has mobilized its emotional, cognitive and behavioural potential to pursue its goal
8.6.2. Success is only possible if people are engaged, focused on the appropriate goals and feel a sense of working together as one team.
8.6.3. The success of the Portfolio depends as much on people as process so this principle recognizes the need for an engaged team working together to define and deliver the Portfolio. Here, MoP® gets into the ‘softer side’ by looking at areas such as communication, the learning organization and listening and engagement with staff.
8.6.4. Keys to Success
8.6.4.1. Collaborative working environment
8.6.4.1.1. Include adapting the performance management and reward and recognition systems to reflect and encourage the desired behaviours
8.6.4.2. Proactive communications
8.6.4.2.1. Regular, proactive and compelling communication is published about the objectives of the portfolio and progress made
8.6.4.3. A learning organization
8.6.4.3.1. Lessons learned are captured, disseminated and acted upon
8.6.4.4. Clarity about expectations
8.6.4.4.1. Train people so that they understand what is expected of them
8.6.4.5. Effective processes
8.6.4.5.1. Are perceived as consistent, transparent, accurate, objective and fair
8.6.4.6. Roles and relationships are agreed
8.6.4.6.1. Roles are documented and help people understand their contribution to the strategic objectives
8.6.4.7. Monitor organizational energy
8.6.4.7.1. Assess the types and depth of energy present
8.6.4.8. Demonstrable senior management commitment
8.6.4.8.1. Senior managers ‘walk the talk’
8.6.4.9. Listen and engage
8.6.4.9.1. Include feedback from key stakeholders in the portfolio performance metrics
9. MoP® Portfolio Management Cycles (2)
9.1. Portfolio management does not have a mandated start point, middle or end, rather all practices are found within two continuous portfolio management cycles: the portfolio definition cycle and portfolio delivery cycle.
9.2. Both Cycles must continuously rotate because planning and delivery are constant activities in PfM.
9.2.1. The rotation speed of the Cycles will vary for each organisation.
9.2.1.1. Some organisations work in highly volatile markets and energy will transfer between the two Cycles regularly, which will cause a change in rotation speed.
9.3. Both Cycles contain the totality of all PfM Practices.
9.3.1. All PfM Practices are continuously used (albeit at different times they may attract more emphasis).
9.4. The Cycles can only rotate successfully when the collective energy of the people within the organisation is directed and managed in effectively.
9.5. Portfolio Definition Cycle
9.5.1. Purpose
9.5.1.1. The purpose of the portfolio definition cycle is to collate key information that will provide clarity to senior management on the collection of change initiatives that will deliver the greatest contribution to the strategic objectives, subject to consideration of risk / achievability, resource constraints and cost / affordability.
9.5.2. Focuses on ‘doing the right things’ by collating key information that will provide clarity to senior management and the wider audience with regards to the collection of change initiatives and how these initiatives will deliver the greatest contribution to the strategic objectives. The 5 practices within the portfolio definition cycle include:
9.5.2.1. see Practices
9.5.3. Well Functioning Portfolio Definition Cycle
9.5.3.1. Clarity on the high level scope, schedule, dependencies, risks, costs (and affordability) and benefits of the potential change initiatives.
9.5.3.2. Enables the portfolio governance body to make informed decisions on the composition of the portfolio to optimize strategic contribution.
9.5.3.3. Helps the organization match the planned changes with its capacity to deliver, without over-committing, or alternatively, having excess idle resources.
9.5.4. Ineffective Portfolio Definition Cycle
9.5.4.1. The portfolio won’t represent the best use of available resources in the context of the organization’s strategic objectives, aggregate risk and available resources.
9.5.4.2. Pet projects will consume resources at the expense of higher priority initiatives and initiatives will be started without considering their fit with the current portfolio.
9.5.4.3. Delivery will be impacted with too many, or poorly scheduled initiatives, with conflicting resource requirements and unbalanced impacts on BAU.
9.6. Portfolio Delivery Cycle
9.6.1. Purpose
9.6.1.1. The purpose of the portfolio delivery cycle is to ensure the successful implementation of the planned change initiatives as agreed in the portfolio strategy & delivery plan, whilst also ensuring the portfolio adapts to changes in the strategic objectives, project and programme delivery, and lessons learned.
9.6.2. Focuses on ‘doing those things right’, ensuring the successful implementation of the planned change initiatives as agreed in the portfolio strategy and delivery plan, whilst also ensuring that the portfolio adapts to changes in the strategic objectives, project and programme delivery, and lessons learned. The 7 practices within the portfolio delivery cycle include:
9.6.2.1. see Practices
9.6.3. Well Functioning Portfolio Delivery Cycle
9.6.3.1. Resources, risks and dependencies will be efficiently and effectively managed and senior management will gain greater control over the change portfolio.
9.6.3.2. Improved delivery on time and to budget.
9.6.3.3. Improved benefits realization.
9.6.3.4. The portfolio remains strategically aligned - by enabling resource re-allocation when required.
9.6.4. Ineffective Portfolio Delivery Cycle
9.6.4.1. Many initiatives will not be delivered on time and to budget.
9.6.4.2. Demand and supply for resources won’t be matched resulting in shortages and idle capacity.
9.6.4.3. Inadequate action will be taken to address poor performance and delivery slippage.
9.6.4.4. Initiative scheduling results in unnecessary operational disruption.
9.6.4.5. The portfolio will not adjust to shifts in business priorities and consequently money will be spent unwisely.
9.6.4.6. The contribution to strategic objectives will not be optimized.
10. MoP® Portfolio Practices (12)
10.1. MoP® Portfolio Definition Cycle Practices (5)
10.1.1. Purpose
10.1.1.1. The purpose of the portfolio definition cycle is to collate key information that will provide clarity to senior management on the collection of change initiatives that will deliver the greatest contribution to the strategic objectives, subject to consideration of risk / achievability, resource constraints and cost / affordability.
10.1.2. 1. Understand
10.1.2.1. Purpose
10.1.2.1.1. To obtain a clear and transparent view of: what’s in the current portfolio and the project development pipeline; performance to date; and, looking forward - the forecast costs, benefits, and risks to delivery and benefits realization
10.1.2.2. An initial understanding of the portfolio scope including change initiatives that already exist or need to exist
10.1.2.3. Keys to Success
10.1.2.3.1. What is the current portfolio and the project development pipeline?
10.1.2.3.2. Forecast costs, benefits, and risks to delivery and benefits realization
10.1.2.3.3. The portfolio scope is clear
10.1.2.3.4. Consistent data
10.1.2.3.5. Undertake sufficient research
10.1.2.3.6. The portfolio office and strategic planning work collaboratively
10.1.2.3.7. Effective relationships are developed with PPM pofessionals
10.1.2.3.8. Prepare an interim status report
10.1.3. 2. Categorize
10.1.3.1. Purpose
10.1.3.1.1. The purpose of the categorize practice is to make it easier for senior decision makers to understand the make up of their portfolio and thus to make decisions on balance and on the optimum use of available funding and other resources
10.1.3.1.2. Organize change initiatives into groups, segments or sub-portfolios based on the strategic objectives or other groupings as required
10.1.3.2. Categorization organizes change initiatives into groups, segments or sub-portfolios based on the strategic objectives or other grouping as required. Common approaches include categorization by:
10.1.3.2.1. Strategic objective
10.1.3.2.2. Line of business
10.1.3.2.3. Geographical area
10.1.3.2.4. Type of initiative
10.1.3.2.5. etc.
10.1.3.3. Keys to Success
10.1.3.3.1. Use categorization to assess strategic alignment
10.1.3.3.2. Categories should suit the circumstances
10.1.3.3.3. Be creative in presentational formats
10.1.3.3.4. Tailor the investment criteria
10.1.3.3.5. Be sensitive to how the analyses may be perceived
10.1.3.3.6. Categorize by:
10.1.4. 3. Prioritize
10.1.4.1. Purpose
10.1.4.1.1. The purpose of the prioritize practice is to help senior management and the portfolio governance body answer the following questions (subject to consideration of an appropriate balance between risk and return).
10.1.4.1.2. Answering these questions is only possible when all initiatives have been prioritized
10.1.4.2. Rank the change initiatives within the portfolio (or portfolio segment) based on one or more agreed measures.
10.1.4.2.1. e.g.
10.1.4.3. Keys to Success
10.1.4.3.1. Tailor the investment criteria
10.1.4.3.2. Management board involvement
10.1.4.3.3. Use multi-criteria analysis
10.1.4.3.4. Evidence-based assessments
10.1.4.3.5. Be creative in presenting the findings
10.1.5. 4. Balance
10.1.5.1. Purpose
10.1.5.1.1. The purpose of the balance practice is to ensure that the resulting portfolio (from the prioritize practice) is balanced in terms of factors such as:
10.1.5.2. Ensure that the portfolio is balanced in terms of timing; contribution to strategic objectives; business impact, risk and resource
10.1.5.3. Keys to Success
10.1.5.3.1. Balance follows identify, categorize and prioritize
10.1.5.3.2. Set the expectations of the portfolio governance body
10.1.5.3.3. Consult widely
10.1.5.3.4. Present findings creatively
10.1.5.3.5. Evidence findings
10.1.5.3.6. Exercise discretion
10.1.5.3.7. Use analyses to inform decision-making
10.1.6. 5. Plan
10.1.6.1. Purpose
10.1.6.1.1. The purpose of the plan practice is to collate information from the portfolio definition cycle and create a portfolio strategy and delivery plan which will be approved by the portfolio direction group/investment committee
10.1.6.2. Collate information from the portfolio definition cycle and create a portfolio strategy and delivery plan that can be agreed and published widely
10.1.6.3. Objectives:
10.1.6.3.1. Provide a longer term overview
10.1.6.3.2. Provide clarity to stakeholders
10.1.6.3.3. Motivate people to commit to the delivery of the shared goals
10.1.6.3.4. Convert the balanced portfolio into a plan
10.1.6.3.5. Provide a baseline (the portfolio delivery plan) against which progress can be monitored, reviewed and managed (via a portfolio dashboard)
10.1.6.4. Keys to Success
10.1.6.4.1. Summarise the results of the definition cycle in a portfolio strategy and delivery plan
10.1.6.4.2. Provide a clear line of sight Provide a clear line of sight (timing,resources, milestones, risks, benefits)
10.1.6.4.3. Prepared by the portfolio office
10.1.6.4.4. Endorsed by the PDG / IC
10.1.6.4.5. Keep it simple
10.2. MoP® Portfolio Delivery Cycle Practices (7)
10.2.1. Purpose
10.2.1.1. The purpose of the portfolio delivery cycle is to ensure the successful implementation of the planned change initiatives as agreed in the portfolio strategy & delivery plan, whilst also ensuring the portfolio adapts to changes in the strategic objectives, project and programme delivery, and lessons learned.
10.2.2. 1. Management control
10.2.2.1. Purpose
10.2.2.1.1. Once agreed, the portfolio strategy and delivery plan forms the baseline for what is to be delivered
10.2.2.1.2. The purpose of the management control practice is to ensure that progress, at an individual and portfolio level, is regularly monitored against this baseline
10.2.2.1.3. This helps to ensure that delivery stays on track and that the portfolio remains strategically aligned
10.2.2.2. Both individual and portfolio level decisions are made regarding progress against the portfolio delivery strategy and plan
10.2.2.3. Keys to Success
10.2.2.3.1. An effective business change lifecycle
10.2.2.3.2. Clearly defined and understood processes
10.2.2.3.3. Reliable forecasting
10.2.2.3.4. A summary investment appraisal template
10.2.2.3.5. Staged release of funding
10.2.2.3.6. Effective progress reporting
10.2.2.3.7. Prompt progress reporting
10.2.2.3.8. Regular review of performance and continuous improvement
10.2.2.3.9. Guidance and templates
10.2.3. 2. Benefits management
10.2.3.1. Purpose
10.2.3.1.1. The purpose of the benefits management practice is to clearly identify and manage the benefits being realized from the portfolio, so helping to ensure the best use of available resources and that the contribution to operational performance and strategic objectives is maximized
10.2.3.2. Keys to Success
10.2.3.2.1. Consistent approach
10.2.3.2.2. Benefits management framework
10.2.3.2.3. Benefits tracking and reporting
10.2.3.2.4. Evidence based forecasting
10.2.3.2.5. Portfolio-level benefits realization plan
10.2.3.2.6. Benefits Eligibility Rules
10.2.3.2.7. Ongoing management of benefits
10.2.3.2.8. Re-appraisal stage gates
10.2.3.2.9. Link to portfolio reporting.
10.2.3.2.10. Post-implementation reviews
10.2.3.2.11. Arrangements to manage post project/programme
10.2.4. 3. Financial management
10.2.4.1. Purpose
10.2.4.1.1. The purpose of the financial management practice is to ensure that the portfolio management processes and decisions are aligned to the financial management cycle and that financial considerations form a key element in all decisions regarding the commencement and on-going viability of change initiatives, both at an individual and at a collective level
10.2.4.2. Keys to Success
10.2.4.2.1. Selection investment criteria
10.2.4.2.2. Involve financial experts
10.2.4.2.3. Clear rules for cashable benefits
10.2.4.2.4. Clear rules for cost forecasts
10.2.4.2.5. Align cycles
10.2.4.2.6. Business cases include financial plans completed on a consistent basis
10.2.4.2.7. Staged release of funding
10.2.4.2.8. Portfolio-level financial planning
10.2.4.2.9. Regular reporting of progress
10.2.5. 4. Risk management
10.2.5.1. Purpose
10.2.5.1.1. The purpose of the risk management practice is to ensure consistent and effective management of the portfolio’s exposure to risk at both individual and collective level.
10.2.5.1.2. This is crucial to the successful delivery of change initiatives, to delivery of the portfolio as a whole, and ultimately the achievement of the organization’s strategic objectives
10.2.5.2. Keys to Success
10.2.5.2.1. Align the portfolio risk management strategy with the organization’s risk management strategy.
10.2.5.2.2. Strategy.
10.2.5.2.3. Collaboration with risk department.
10.2.5.2.4. Regular reviews.
10.2.5.2.5. Effective escalation.
10.2.5.2.6. Budgetary risk contingency
10.2.5.2.7. Involve experts.
10.2.5.2.8. Risk-based prioritization.
10.2.5.2.9. Incorporate risk into the business change lifecycle.
10.2.5.2.10. Portfolio risks.
10.2.5.2.11. Incorporate risks into portfolio reporting.
10.2.6. 5. Stakeholder engagement
10.2.6.1. Purpose
10.2.6.1.1. The purpose of the stakeholder engagement practice is to provide a coordinated approach to stakeholder engagement and communication
10.2.6.2. Keys to Success
10.2.6.2.1. Work collaboratively with the organization’s communication team.
10.2.6.2.2. Shared vision and communicate.
10.2.6.2.3. Value communication.
10.2.6.2.4. Involve stakeholders.
10.2.6.2.5. Collaborate with communication.
10.2.6.2.6. Align plans from individual initiatives with the overall portfolio plan.
10.2.6.2.7. Ensure a tailored approach.
10.2.6.2.8. Incorporate a feedback loop.
10.2.6.2.9. Use contemporary communications.
10.2.6.2.10. Focus on senior management.
10.2.6.2.11. Proactively support.
10.2.6.2.12. Consistent approach.
10.2.7. 6. Organizational governance
10.2.7.1. Purpose
10.2.7.1.1. The purpose of the organizational governance practice is to ensure clarity about what decisions are made, where and when, and what criteria are used
10.2.7.2. Keys to Success
10.2.7.2.1. A shared vision for the portfolio
10.2.7.2.2. Framework: objectives, processes, roles
10.2.7.2.3. Oversight, escalation, monitoring
10.2.7.2.4. Clarity about governance
10.2.7.2.5. Regular reviews of business cases and progress
10.2.7.2.6. Shared understanding of the governance structure and processes
10.2.8. 7. Resource management
10.2.8.1. Purpose
10.2.8.1.1. At some level the amount of resources available to deliver change initiatives is constrained
10.2.8.1.2. The purpose of the resource management practice is to put in place mechanisms to understand and manage the amount of resources available and required to deliver the changes
10.2.8.2. More informed decisions to be made concerning the initiation and scheduling of initiatives to match resource availability
10.2.8.3. More efficient and effective use of available resources – less ‘down time’, improved balance between internal and external people, and limited resources allocated to initiatives in priority order
10.2.8.4. Improved realization of benefits as the scale and timing of business change required is proactively managed to ensure it is achievable
10.2.8.5. Improved delivery since initiatives will be less likely to be held up by temporary resource shortages or bottlenecks
10.2.8.6. Keys to Success
10.2.8.6.1. Set portfolio-wide standards for resource forecasting
10.2.8.6.2. Use business cases to create a portfolio resource schedule
10.2.8.6.3. Review the resource schedule regularly
10.2.8.6.4. Implement dynamic resource management
10.2.8.6.5. Understand demand
10.2.8.6.6. Understand the supply
10.2.8.6.7. Match demand and supply
10.2.8.6.8. Gap closure:
11. MoP® Roles and Responsibilities (5)
11.1. Portfolio Direction Group or Investment Committee (PDG/IC)
11.1.1. Purpose
11.1.1.1. This is the governance body where decisions about inclusion of initiatives in the portfolio are made.
11.1.1.2. No initiative should be included within the portfolio or funded without the PDG / IC’s approval.
11.1.2. Makes decisions about inclusion of initiatives in the portfolio and as such approves the portfolio strategy and delivery plan
11.1.3. Responsibilities:
11.1.3.1. Agree the portfolio management framework
11.1.3.2. Approve the portfolio strategy and delivery plan
11.1.3.3. Decide on the scope and content of the portfolio
11.1.3.4. Ensure that the portfolio is suitably balanced
11.1.3.5. Ensure that resources are allocated appropriately
11.1.3.6. Ensure that the portfolio development pipeline is adequately balanced
11.1.3.7. Ensure that initiatives progress through the pipeline at an adequate speed
11.1.3.8. Undertake regular portfolio-level reviews to assess progress
11.1.3.9. Review recommendations from the PPG/CDC and make decisions accordingly
11.1.3.10. Resolve conflicts between portfolio delivery and BAU which cannot resolved within PPG/CDC
11.1.3.11. Promote collaborative working across the organization
11.1.3.12. Undertake periodic reviews of the effectiveness of portfolio management
11.2. Portfolio Progress Group (PPG) or Change Delivery Commitee (CDC)
11.2.1. Purpose
11.2.1.1. This is the governance body responsible for monitoring portfolio progress and resolving issues that may compromise delivery and benefits realization.
11.2.2. Is responsible for monitoring portfolio progress and resolving issues that may compromise delivery and benefits realization
11.2.3. Responsibilities:
11.2.3.1. Agree the processes within the portfolio delivery cycle and ensure that they work effectively
11.2.3.2. Ensure that all initiatives comply with agreed delivery standards
11.2.3.3. Monitor delivery of the portfolio delivery plan including:
11.2.3.3.1. Ensure effective action is taken to address overspends.
11.2.3.3.2. Take prompt action to consider reallocating the funds to other initiatives.
11.2.3.3.3. Review and resolve key portfolio-level issues.
11.2.3.3.4. Ensure that risks and dependencies are effectively managed.
11.2.3.3.5. Ensure that limited resources are managed effectively and efficiently.
11.2.3.3.6. Monitor and approve changes to the benefits forecast.
11.2.3.3.7. Approve communications on portfolio progress
11.2.3.4. Make recommendations to the PDG/IC for the termination of initiatives
11.2.3.5. Escalate issues that can’t be adequately resolved to the PDG/IC
11.2.3.6. Undertake periodic reviews of the effectiveness of portfolio delivery
11.3. Business Change Director or Portfolio Director
11.3.1. Purpose
11.3.1.1. The business change or portfolio director is the management board member who is responsible for the portfolio strategy and provides clear leadership and direction through its life.
11.3.2. A board member responsible for the portfolio strategy and providing clear leadership and direction through its life
11.3.3. Responsibilities:
11.3.3.1. Champions the implementation of portfolio management
11.3.3.2. Secures the investment to implement portfolio management
11.3.3.3. Provides overall direction and leadership for the implementation and delivery of the portfolio
11.3.3.4. Gains relevant management board approval for the portfolio strategy and delivery plan
11.3.3.5. Promotes an energized culture that is focused on collaborative working in the interests of the organization as a whole
11.3.3.6. Ensures that the portfolio evolves to reflect changed strategic objectives and business priorities and that resources are reallocated where necessary.
11.3.3.7. Ensures that the portfolio management practices are documented in a portfolio management framework and that they are amended in the light of lessons learned.
11.4. Portfolio Manager
11.4.1. Purpose
11.4.1.1. The portfolio manager coordinates the effective and efficient operation of the portfolio management practices and provides support to the business change / portfolio director, portfolio direction group / investment committee and portfolio progress group / change delivery committee - including ensuring that they receive the information they require to enable them to discharge their responsibilities.
11.4.1.2. The portfolio manager reports to the PDG/IC and in particular to the Business change director or Portfolio director.
11.4.2. Coordinates the effective and efficient operation of the portfolio management practices and provides support to the above mentionned roles
11.4.3. Responsibilities:
11.4.3.1. Drafts the portfolio strategy and delivery plan
11.4.3.2. Keeps the portfolio management framework up to date
11.4.3.3. Challenge the project and programme managers on their progress reports
11.4.3.4. Prepares the regular portfolio dashboard
11.4.3.5. Ensures business cases are prepared on a consistent and reliable basis
11.4.3.6. Undertakes investment appraisals and reports
11.4.3.7. Coordinates portfolio prioritization exercises
11.4.3.8. Ensures that dependencies are effectively managed
11.4.3.9. Leads on the portfolio communications plan
11.4.3.10. Identifies constraints within the portfolio and works to overcome them
11.4.3.11. Identifies improvements to the portfolio management practices
11.5. Portfolio Benefits Manager
11.5.1. Purpose
11.5.1.1. The portfolio benefits manager ensures that a consistent ‘fit for purpose’ approach to benefits management is applied across the portfolio and that benefits realization is optimized from the organization’s investment in change.
11.5.2. Ensures a consistent fit for purpose approach to benefits management is applied across the portfolio and that benefits realization is optimized from the investment in change
11.5.3. Responsibilities:
11.5.3.1. Develops and maintains the portfolio benefits management framework
11.5.3.2. Provides training and awareness-sessions on the application of the portfolio benefits management framework
11.5.3.3. Ensures that benefits forecasts are consistent with the organization’s benefits eligibility rules.
11.5.3.4. Promotes effective benefits management practices
11.5.3.5. Facilitates benefits-mapping workshops
11.5.3.6. Provides advice and support colleagues on benefits forecasts and benefits management strategies
11.5.3.7. Provides assurance on the effectiveness of benefits management practices at programme and project level
11.5.3.8. Maintains the portfolio-level benefits forecast and ensures that double counting is minimized
11.5.3.9. Coordinates the production of the annual portfolio-level benefits realization plan
11.5.3.10. Consolidates progress reports for the portfolio dashboard and for periodic portfolio-level reviews
11.5.3.11. Escalates any benefits-related issues via the portfolio manager to either the PDG/IC or PPG/CDC
11.5.3.12. Sets and maintains standards for benefits forecast and identify lessons learned
12. Approaches to implementing portfolio management (3)
12.1. There is no one right way to implement portfolio management – it all depends on the circumstances
12.2. Big bang
12.2.1. Business change programme in its own right
12.2.1.1. 1 big programme
12.2.2. Implementation is viewed as a business change programme in its own right and is planned with: a business case; a compelling vision for the future state; a Blueprint or Target Operating Model; and an implementation plan agreed by the management board.
12.2.3. A time bound implementation phase is followed by live running encompassing all portfolio definition and delivery practices.
12.2.3.1. Most appropriate where top-down approaches to strategy formulation are applied, where the environment is relatively stable, and where PPM is already relatively mature.
12.2.4. When?
12.2.4.1. Most appropriate where top-down approaches to strategy formulation are applied, where the environment is relatively stable, and where PPM is already relatively mature.
12.3. Evolution
12.3.1. More evolutionary or incremental approach
12.3.1.1. Step by step
12.3.2. Here a more evolutionary or incremental approach is taken starting with areas of greatest need or those where rapid progress can be made, and the organization’s approach to Portfolio Management then evolves to reflect its needs, opportunities and lessons learned.
12.3.2.1. Most appropriate in less stable environments and where strategy is itself emergent.
12.3.3. When?
12.3.3.1. More appropriate in less stable environments and where strategy is itself emergent.
12.4. Ad hoc
12.4.1. Like evolution, but without plan
12.4.1.1. No detailed master plan, no lessons learned
12.4.2. As with the evolutionary approach, there is no detailed master plan, but there is no expectation that the approach will develop and no commitment to capturing lessons learned to inform development.
12.4.2.1. Instead implementation is more opportunistic.
12.4.2.2. Applicable where existing practices are less mature and where senior commitment to organization-wide, end-to-end Portfolio Management is less well embedded.
12.4.3. When?
12.4.3.1. Applicable where existing practices are less mature and where senior commitment to organization-wide, end-to-end portfolio management is less well embedded.
13. Objectives of Portfolio Management
13.1. 1. The change initiatives that are being delivered (and those in the development pipeline) represent the optimum allocation of resources in the context of the organization’s strategic objectives, available resources, and risk or achievability.
13.2. 2. The portfolio is sufficient to achieve the desired contribution to strategic objectives.
13.3. 3. All initiatives are necessary to achieve the desired contribution to strategic objectives.
13.4. 4. The selected change initiatives are delivered effectively and cost efficiently.
13.5. 5. All the potential benefits are realized.
14. Benefits of Portfolio Management
14.1. 1. More of the ‘right’ programmes and projects being undertaken in terms of: greater financial benefits and measurable contribution to strategic objectives.
14.2. 2. Removal of redundant & duplicate initiatives.
14.3. 3. More effective implementation of programmes and projects via management of the project development pipeline, dependencies, and constraints (including resources, skills, infrastructure, change appetite, etc.) and redirecting resources when programmes and projects do not deliver or are no longer making a sufficient strategic contribution.
14.4. 4. More efficient resource utilization.
14.5. 5. Greater benefits realization via active approaches to exploitation of the capacity and capability created across the organization, capturing and disseminating lessons learnt.
14.6. 6. Enhanced transparency, accountability and corporate governance - and assurance on consistent and competent programme and project management.
14.7. 7. Improved engagement and communication between relevant stakeholders in communicating strategic objectives, and the means by which they will be achieved.
14.8. 8. Improved awareness of aggregated risks.
14.9. 9. The benefits from senior managers engaging in debate on the contents of the portfolio.
14.10. 10. Improved cross-organizational collaboration in pursuit of shared goals.
15. MoP® Portfolio Management Key Functions / Activities (6)
15.1. The 6 key functions/activities that Portfolio Management needs to coordinate with to achieve strategic objectives
15.2. 1. Business As Usual (BaU)
15.2.1. Portfolio management and BaU combine to realize strategic objectives.
15.2.2. Portfolio management controls the major changes to BAU.
15.2.2.1. Successfully implemented changes allow benefits to be realized and operational performance improves.
15.3. 2. Strategic/Business planning
15.3.1. Strategic planning sets the context within which portfolio management operates while portfolio management provides crucial information for strategic decision making.
15.4. 3. Budgeting and resource allocation
15.4.1. Portfolio management provides the means by which the link between strategy and (financial) resource allocation can be maintained.
15.5. 4. Programme and project management
15.5.1. Portfolio management delivery capability organization-wide (standards, processes, staff development), and manages the change initiatives at a collective level (limited resources, overall risk management, dependency management, ...).
15.6. 5. Performance management
15.6.1. Portfolio management should align with the organization’s performance management system (e.g. align reporting, engaging performance management early on in the development of business cases, etc.).
15.6.2. Portfolio management can imply changes to the performance management system (e.g.the way individual performance targets are framed on organizational objectives).
15.7. 6. Corporate governance
15.7.1. Portfolio management supports effective governance by (amongst others) inking delvery of the organization’s strategic objectives with investment in change, by providing a framework of rules and practices for managing the delivery of the portfolio, and by clarifying responsibilitiy and accountability for decision making on which projects will be funded and on what basis.
16. MoP® Products (Portfolio Documentation) (9)
16.1. Portfolio Management Framework
16.1.1. To provide all stakeholders with a single, authoritative and up‑to‑date source of advice on the portfolio management practices adopted by the organization and its governance arrangements.
16.2. Portfolio Strategy
16.2.1. The portfolio strategy is a document to communicate a brief description of the vision and objectives for the portfolio and the means by which these objectives will be achieved and must be endorsed by senior management.
16.2.2. Normally it will have a time horizon of several years.
16.3. Portfolio Delivery Plan
16.3.1. The portfolio delivery plan provides a more detailed understanding of the usually annual delivery schedule, cost and resource allocations, and the benefits to be realized.
16.4. Portfolio Benefits Management Framework
16.4.1. To provide a framework within which consistent approaches to benefits management can be applied across the portfolio.
16.5. Portfolio Benefits Realization Plan
16.5.1. To summarize the benefits forecast to be realized in the year ahead and so provide a clear view of the planned returns from the organization’s accumulated investment in change.
16.6. Portfolio Financial Plan
16.6.1. To summarize the financial commitments inherent in the approved portfolio for the year ahead as a basis for formal senior management budgetary approval.
16.7. Portfolio Resource Schedule
16.7.1. To provide a baseline against which to manage demand and supply for constrained resources.
16.8. Portfolio Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Plan
16.8.1. To provide a framework for coordinated and consistent communications across the portfolio.
16.9. Portfolio Dashboard
16.9.1. To provide the portfolio governance bodies with an overview of progress against plan.
17. Basic Definitions (according to AXELOS®)
17.1. Portfolios / Programme / Project Management
17.1.1. Portfolio Management
17.1.1.1. A coordinated collection of strategic processes and decisions that together enable the most effective balance of organizational change and business as usual (BAU).
17.1.2. Programme Management
17.1.2.1. The action of carrying out the coordinated organization, direction and implementation of a dossier of projects and transformation activities to achieve outcomes and realize benefits of strategic importance to the business.
17.1.3. Project Management
17.1.3.1. The planning, delegating, monitoring and control of all aspects of the project, and the motivation of those involved, to achieve the project objectives within the expected performance targets for time, cost, quality, scope, benefits and risks.
17.2. Project / Programme / Portfolios
17.2.1. Portfolio
17.2.1.1. An organization’s change portfolio is the totality of its investment (or segment thereof) in the changes required to achieve its strategic objectives.
17.2.2. Programme
17.2.2.1. A programme is a temporary, flexible organization created to coordinate, direct and oversee the implementation of a set of related projects and activities in order to deliver outcomes and benefits related to the organization’s strategic objectives.
17.2.2.2. 3 types of programmes
17.2.2.2.1. Vision-led programme
17.2.2.2.2. Emergent programme
17.2.2.2.3. Compliance programme
17.2.3. Project
17.2.3.1. A temporary organization, usually existing for a much shorter time than a programme, which will deliver one or more outputs in accordance with a specific business case.
17.2.3.2. A particular project may or may not be part of a programme.
17.2.3.3. Whereas programmes deal with outcomes, projects deal with outputs.
17.2.3.4. 5 types of projects
17.2.3.4.1. Compulsory project
17.2.3.4.2. Not-for-profit project
17.2.3.4.3. Evolving (Agile, RUP) project
17.2.3.4.4. Customer/supplier project
17.2.3.4.5. Multi-organization project
17.3. Output, Capability, Outcome, Benefits
17.3.1. Output
17.3.1.1. The deliverable, or output developed by a project from a planned activity. Any project's specialists products. (tangible or intangible)
17.3.1.2. e.g.
17.3.1.2.1. A new just-in-time stock control system
17.3.1.2.2. A new IT system
17.3.1.2.3. Staff training programme
17.3.1.2.4. Revised process
17.3.2. Capability
17.3.2.1. The completed set of project outputs required to deliver an outcome; exists prior to transition.
17.3.2.2. e.g.
17.3.2.2.1. The combination of the outputs ready to ’go live’.
17.3.3. Outcome
17.3.3.1. A new operational state achieved after transition of the capability into live operations. Result of the change derived fron USING the project's outputs.
17.3.3.2. e.g.
17.3.3.2.1. The right materials are available, at the right time, and in the right place
17.3.4. Benefit
17.3.4.1. The MEASURABLE improvement resulting from an OUTCOME perceived as an ADVANTAGE by ONE or MORE of stakeholders, which contributes towards one or more organizational objectives(s).
17.3.4.2. e.g.
17.3.4.2.1. Fewer stock-outs and consequent interruptions to production.
17.3.4.2.2. Reduced obsolescent stock and hence lower write-offs.
17.3.4.2.3. Reduced stock holdings and so less working capital tied up.
17.3.5. Dis-benefit
17.3.5.1. An outcome perceived as NEGATIVE by ONE or MORE stakeholders. Dis-benefits are actual consequences not risks.
18. Interactive MoP® Glossary
18.1. Interactive MoP® Glossary
19. Organisational Energy (4)
19.1. Organisational Energy represents the collective effort, motivation, teamwork, management and leadership that is critical in order to keep the PfM Cycles rotating.
19.1.1. Organizational energy is the extent to which an organization (division or team) has mobilized its emotional, cognitive and behavioural potential to pursue its goals.
19.2. A focus on Organisational Energy links to the human side of change and hence Change Management.
19.3. Connection
19.3.1. How people link themselves, their values and their work to the purpose of the organization.
19.4. Content
19.4.1. Work stimulates and provides a sense of achievement.
19.5. Context
19.5.1. Working practices support and enable people to do a good job.
19.6. Climate
19.6.1. How the organization helps people to grow, achieve their potential and do their best.
20. MoP® Lite Techniques (9)
20.1. Driver-based strategic contribution assessment
20.1.1. This is a technique used in value management and focuses on the functions needed to satisfy the objectives of the change initiative. Each function is known as a value driver and they are given a ranking which enables value for money to be calculated.
20.2. Three-point estimating and reference class forecasting
20.2.1. These are estimating techniques. Three point estimating allocates a pessimistic, optimistic, and most likely estimate for an activity. Statistical analysis is used to generate a range of estimates for a particular project or program to produce a more reliable estimate. Reference class forecasting refers to previous projects and encourages previous lessons to be learned and applied to the work in question.
20.3. Multi-criteria analysis
20.3.1. This technique combines financial metrics with other factors (which may be weighted) under the headings of return or attractiveness and risk or achievability
20.4. Decision-conferencing
20.4.1. Managers debate in a workshop the relative weightings attached to an organization's strategic objectives. Those objectives that score the highest become the ones to focus on as they will contribute the larger return.
20.5. Staged release of funding
20.5.1. Staged release of funds is linked to stage of phase gates. Funds are only released if the work at the gate is acceptable and permission is given to proceed into the next stage or gate.
20.6. One version of truth reporting
20.6.1. In this technique all data used for portfolio progress reporting comes from a single source managed by the portfolio office. Individual initiatives and other functions will provide data to the single source.
20.7. The champion-challenger model
20.7.1. Everyone is expected to comply with the defined portfolio process which is known as the current "champion". Anyone can recommend a change to the process. This change is known as the "challenger"; and if agreed it becomes the new "champion".
20.8. Clear line of sight planning and reporting
20.8.1. This technique seeks to ensure a transparent chain from strategic intent through to benefits realization
20.9. Management by exception
20.9.1. Only variances from a plan that exceed a pre-agreed limit are escalated