In our article “Programme DPro Versus Project DPro: Similarities and Differences,” we examine the phases and management approaches of Programme DPro and Project DPro.
We provide an overview of the project and programme management phases to help readers understand the connections and distinctions between these two methodologies.
Project DPro consists of five phases: Identification and Definition, Set Up, Planning, Implementation, and Closure.
On the other hand, Programme DPro combines Planning and Implementation into one phase while incorporating Identification and Closure.
By understanding the principles, decision gates, and critical disciplines of both methodologies, professionals can adopt a comprehensive and strategic approach to project and programme management.
Project DPro Phases
In project management, five phases are typically followed to ensure successful completion.
These phases are:
Identification and Definition
The first phase of project management is identification and definition. This is where we identify the need for a project and define its objectives.
We gather information and conduct a feasibility study to assess the project’s viability.
This phase also involves identifying key stakeholders and conducting a preliminary risk assessment.
Set Up
The next phase is set up once the project has been identified and defined.
This is where we establish the project team, define roles and responsibilities, and set up project governance structures.
We also create a project plan and develop communication channels to ensure effective collaboration among team members.
Planning
The planning phase is where we develop a detailed project plan that outlines the project’s activities, resources, and timeline.
This involves breaking down the project into smaller tasks, estimating the resources and duration for each task, and creating a project schedule.
We also identify project risks and develop a risk mitigation plan.
Implementation
After the planning phase, we move into the implementation phase. This is where the project plan and the actual work are implemented.
The project team carries out the tasks as outlined in the project plan, and progress is monitored and tracked.
This phase also involves managing project resources, resolving issues, and communicating with stakeholders.
Closure
The final phase of project management is closure. This is where the project is completed, and all project activities are wrapped up.
This involves performing a final project evaluation, conducting a lessons learnt session, and documenting project outcomes.
The team also prepares a project closure report and transitions any remaining tasks to the appropriate stakeholders.
Programme DPro Phases
A similar set of phases is followed in programme management to ensure successful programme implementation.
These phases are:
Identification in Programme DPro Methodology
The identification phase in programme management is similar to that in project management. It involves identifying the need for a programme and defining its objectives.
This phase also involves conducting a feasibility study and identifying key stakeholders.
Design in Programme DPro Methodology
The design phase in programme management is where we create a roadmap for the programme.
This roadmap outlines how the different programme elements will fit together and provides a framework for managing individual projects.
This phase also involves developing a programme governance structure and identifying programme risks.
Planning & Implementation
Unlike project management, programme management combines the planning and implementation phases.
In this phase, we develop and implement a detailed programme plan. We manage programme resources, monitor progress, and adjust the plan.
This phase also involves managing programme risks and communicating with stakeholders.
Closure in Programme DPro Methodology
The final phase of programme management is closure, similar to the closure phase in project management.
This phase completes the programme, and all programme activities are wrapped up.
A final evaluation is conducted, lessons learned are documented, and a programme closure report is prepared.
Differences Between Project DPro and Programme DPro Phases
While the phases in both Project DPro and Programme DPro are similar, there are a few key differences between the two.
The main difference lies in how the planning and implementation phases are approached.
In Project DPro, planning and implementation are separate phases, allowing for a more structured and detailed approach.
This is because projects are usually smaller in scale and focus on achieving specific objectives within a defined timeframe.
The project plan is more granular and specific to the project’s scope.
On the other hand, in Programme DPro, planning and implementation are combined into one phase.
This is because programmes involving multiple interconnected projects are larger and more complex.
The programme plan focuses on creating a framework for managing the different projects within the programme and ensuring their alignment with strategic goals.
Another difference is the inclusion of the design phase in the DPro programme.
This phase is not present in Project DPro, as projects are typically executed based on predefined objectives.
In Programme DPro, the Design phase allows for a strategic approach to programme management, where a roadmap is created to guide the management of individual projects.
Project DPro Phase Model
The project DPro phase model consists of five sequential phases: Identification and Definition, Set Up, Planning, Implementation, and Closure.
These phases provide a structured approach to project management.
The Identification and Definition phase focuses on understanding the project’s objectives and defining its scope. It involves conducting a feasibility study, identifying stakeholders, and assessing risks.
The Set Up phase involves establishing the project team, defining roles and responsibilities, and setting up project governance structures.
This phase ensures that the project is properly organised and resources are allocated efficiently.
The Planning phase is where a detailed project plan is developed. This plan outlines the activities, resources, and timeline for the project.
The project team breaks down the project into smaller tasks, estimates resources and duration, and creates a project schedule.
The Implementation phase is where the project plan is implemented. The project team carries out the tasks outlined in the plan, and progress is monitored and tracked.
This phase also involves managing resources, resolving issues, and communicating with stakeholders.
The Closure phase is the final phase of the project.
It involves completing all project activities, evaluating project outcomes, and documenting lessons learned.
The project team prepares a closure report and transitions any remaining tasks to the appropriate stakeholders.
Programme DPro Phase Model
The programme DPro phase model consists of four phases: Identification, Design, Planning & Implementation, and Closure.
These phases provide a framework for managing programmes and ensuring their successful implementation.
The Identification phase in Programme DPro is similar to that in Project DPro.
It focuses on identifying the need for a programme and defining its objectives.
This phase also involves conducting a feasibility study and identifying key stakeholders.
The Design phase is unique to programme DPro and reflects the strategic nature of programme management.
In this phase, a roadmap is created to guide the management of individual projects within the programme.
The roadmap shows how the different elements of the programme will fit together and align with strategic goals.
The Planning and implementation phase in Programme DPro combines the two phases into one.
This phase involves developing and implementing a detailed programme plan.
Programme resources are managed, progress is monitored, and adjustments are made to the plan as needed.
This phase also involves managing programme risks and communicating with stakeholders.
The Closure phase in programme DPro is similar to the Closure phase in project DPro.
It focuses on completing the programme and wrapping up all programme activities.
A final evaluation is conducted, lessons learned are documented, and a programme closure report is prepared.
Principles in Programme DPro and Project DPro
In both Project DPro and Programme DPro, fundamental principles guide the management approach.
These principles are:
Well Governed
Well-governed projects and programmes establish clear governance structures, processes, and accountability mechanisms.
They define roles and responsibilities and ensure that decisions are made transparently and fairly.
Participatory
Participatory projects and programmes involve stakeholders in decision-making and foster collaboration and engagement.
They ensure that multiple perspectives and voices are heard and stakeholders are involved throughout the project or programme lifecycle.
Comprehensive
Comprehensive projects and programmes consider all relevant factors and considerations.
They consider the project or program’s social, environmental, and economic impacts and strive to address the needs and expectations of all stakeholders.
Integrated
Integrated projects and programmes take a holistic approach and consider the interconnectedness of different elements.
They ensure coordination and synergy among different components and that activities are aligned with the overall goals and objectives.
Adaptive
Adaptive projects and programmes are flexible and can respond to changing circumstances and emerging challenges.
They have mechanisms to monitor and evaluate progress and adjust the plan as needed.
They promote a culture of learning and innovation.
Decision Gates
Decision gates are critical points in project DPro and programme DPro, where management can stop and reflect before proceeding with the project or programme.
These decision gates provide a mechanism for reviewing progress, assessing risks, and making informed decisions.
During decision gates, key stakeholders review the project or program’s status, evaluate its alignment with strategic objectives, and determine whether it should continue or be adjusted.
This ensures that resources are allocated effectively and the project or programme remains on track to achieve its goals.
The decision gates also provide an opportunity to consider any changes in the external environment that may impact the project or program’s success.
This allows for a proactive management approach and ensures that the project or programme remains responsive to emerging challenges.
Disciplines
There are key disciplines that both project and programme managers need to adhere to to ensure successful outcomes. These disciplines include:
Justification
Justification involves clearly defining the need for the project or programme and ensuring that it aligns with strategic objectives.
It consists of conducting a feasibility study, assessing the potential benefits and risks, and making a compelling case for the project or programme.
Time
Time management involves developing a detailed schedule and timeline for the project or programme and ensuring that tasks are completed within the allotted time.
It involves monitoring progress, managing dependencies, and adjusting the schedule as needed.
Scope
Scope management involves defining the boundaries of the project or programme and ensuring that the deliverables and objectives are clearly defined.
It involves managing changes to the scope, monitoring scope creep, and ensuring that the project or programme remains focused on its goals.
Risk
Risk management involves identifying and assessing potential risks to a project or programme and developing strategies to mitigate them.
It involves conducting a risk assessment, developing a risk management plan, and regularly reviewing and monitoring risks throughout the project or programme lifecycle.
Stakeholder
Stakeholder management involves identifying key stakeholders and understanding their needs and expectations.
It engages stakeholders throughout the project or programme lifecycle, manages expectations, and ensures effective communication and collaboration.
Resource Management
Resource management is a critical discipline in Project DPro and Programme DPro.
In Project DPro, resource management involves identifying and allocating resources to the project tasks, monitoring resource usage, and ensuring that resources are used efficiently.
In programme DPro, resource management focuses on financial management and ensuring that programme resources are allocated effectively.
Comparison of Key Disciplines in Programme DPro and Project DPro
While Project DPro and Programme DPro differ in the critical disciplines, they also have similarities.
Justification, Time, Scope, Risk, and Stakeholder management are essential for project and programme managers.
The main difference lies in the focus on Resource Management in Programme DPro, reflecting the strategic nature of programme management.
Programme managers must understand financial management and ensure that programme resources are effectively allocated and utilised.
Whether a project or a programme, effective management of these key disciplines is crucial for successful outcomes.
By adhering to these disciplines, project and programme managers can ensure that projects and programmes are delivered on time, within scope, and with the desired outcomes.
Additional Resources for Programme DPro and Project DPro
You can download Project DPro Second Edition and Programme DPro from the main PM4NGOs website for more information.
These resources provide detailed guidance and frameworks for implementing effective project and programme management practices.
In addition to these resources, various courses and certifications are available through PM4NGOs.
These courses cover a wide range of competencies and can help project and programme managers enhance their skills and knowledge in project and programme management.
By leveraging these additional resources, project and programme managers can further develop their expertise and improve their ability to manage projects and programmes successfully.
In conclusion, understanding the phases, principles, decision gates, and key disciplines of project DPro and programme DPro is essential for practical project and programme management.
By following these frameworks and principles, project and programme managers can increase their chances of successfully delivering projects and programmes to meet organisational goals and objectives.
