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Transcript
Welcome aboard the Knowledge Train. In this podcast, we explore insights and tips to help you manage your way to success in your career and business. I’m Simon Buehring, your conductor on this journey to knowledge, and I’m thrilled to have you with us today.
In this episode, we delve into the world of Managing Successful Programmes, or MSP, and explore how it can help you handle complex changes within your organization. We’ll discuss what MSP is, its importance, and the various certifications available to equip you with essential programme management skills.
Let’s begin with an overview of Managing Successful Programmes. MSP is a best-practice programme management framework that helps organizations break down large, complex transformational changes into smaller, manageable projects. This highly flexible framework consists of official guidance and certifications at Foundation, Practitioner, and Advanced Practitioner levels. Owned by AXELOS, MSP is widely recognized and used in both public and private sectors, especially in the UK, where it has become the leading approach to programme management since its development in 1999.
The need for organizational change is driven by various factors such as technology, competition, and legislation. Businesses that fail to adapt may struggle to survive. MSP provides a structured approach to implementing change and works alongside change management strategies to engage staff during transformations. It is particularly effective in politically and socially sensitive programmes, where outcomes can be unpredictable and long-term.
MSP can also be applied to specification-led programmes like large-scale engineering projects. These programmes, while less ambiguous in their deliverables, still benefit from the structured approach MSP offers, helping to manage risks and complexities effectively. It’s essential to know when to use MSP, as it is designed for high complexity, ambiguity, and risk scenarios. For simpler projects, other approaches like PRINCE2 or a project management office may be more appropriate.
The Managing Successful Programmes framework is based on three core concepts: principles, governance themes, and transformational flow. These elements ensure successful transformational change by providing a structured lifecycle from conception to delivery. The demand for professionals with MSP skills and certification is growing as organizations increasingly invest in transformational programmes. Understanding and applying MSP principles is vital for those seeking or working in programme management roles.
MSP certifications come in three levels: Foundation, Practitioner, and Advanced Practitioner. The Foundation certification confirms your understanding of MSP guidance, while the Practitioner level allows you to apply it to your work. The Advanced Practitioner level demonstrates your ability to lead and manage complex transformational programmes. Each level builds on the previous one, providing a comprehensive understanding of the MSP framework and its application in real-world scenarios.
If you’re involved in programme management or aspire to be, gaining MSP certification is a valuable step in your professional development. Whether you are a project manager, business change manager, or senior responsible owner, MSP training equips you with the skills needed to lead successful programmes.
Thank you for joining us on the Knowledge Train as we explored mastering change with Managing Successful Programmes. Don’t forget to subscribe for more insight-packed episodes, and swing by the Knowledge Train website for resources galore. Until the next episode, keep learning, keep managing, and I’ll see you further down the track. Goodbye!