Programme & Project Management

Programme and Project Management is responsible for ensuring that the correct deliverable is delivered, on time and within budget, and that the resources are optimally utilised during the execution of the project / programme



Introduction to Management


Management can be defined as the systematic process aimed at accomplishing specific objectives by leveraging particular resources, predominantly human resources. These objectives align with the overarching goals of the organization. Within the context of Business Engineering, this entails the continuous engineering of the business to ensure ongoing alignment with the project's strategic direction.


It is imperative to recognize that resources are inherently finite and interconnected, imposing constraints on managers. Successful management requires the effective and efficient deployment of these resources, enabling managers to deliver the anticipated business benefits. Simultaneously, the Project Manager must ensure a judicious distribution of resources across the entire project life cycle.


The responsibility of management encompasses classical tasks, including:

- Planning: Determining what needs to be done.

- Organising: Assigning responsibilities to individuals based on their roles.

- Directing: Issuing clear instructions and guidance.

- Controlling: Ensuring the implementation of instructions and monitoring their effectiveness.


Objectives of the DISCON Specialists Project Management System


Unlike many methodologies, DISCON Specialists aims to comprehensively address all three facets of the business transformation phase with equal emphasis. Unfortunately, the aspect of Project Management is frequently overlooked by conventional methodologies, leading to undesirable outcomes. Project Management is undeniably an integral component of Business Engineering Methodologies and serves as a crucial means to ensure success in project terms.


In its approach to Business Engineering Project Management, DISCON Specialists diverges from classical or traditional Project Management by customizing Project Management aspects specifically based on Business Architecture. The outcome is a scientific, practical, and adaptable approach to Project Management, effectively remedying many shortcomings associated with more conventional methodologies.


It is crucial to underscore that the discipline of Project Management is multifaceted. While this course provides Project Managers or Project Leaders with valuable information to adeptly perform their roles, substantial practical knowledge and additional skills are requisite for an individual to qualify for the title of Business Engineering Project Manager.

Differentiating Factors of this Project Management


• Varied/Configured Life Cycles: Tailoring life cycles to suit the unique requirements of individual projects.


• Alternative Phasing Schemes: Exploring different approaches to project phases.


• Effective Scope Decomposition Techniques: Strategies for breaking down the scope of business to enhance clarity.


• Hierarchical Planning: Commencing with Master Business Planning as a foundational step.


• Decomposition and Iterative Planning: Developing plans comprising sub-plans through a structured process.


• Time Box and Time Window Approaches: Implementing specific time-constrained methodologies in project management.


• Comprehensive Plan Contents and Mandatory/Supplementary Plans: Defining the essential elements and additional plans required.


• Architectural Bias in Project Management: Utilizing an architectural perspective to gain control over change mechanisms, fostering better scoping, contextual understanding, coordination, and integration of sub-projects. This approach relies on a scientifically proven technique set, constructing business through the organic combination of related building blocks exhibiting natural cohesion.


• Estimating Algorithms: Applying advanced algorithms for project estimation.


• Organising Projects with Joint Project Management: Assigning distinct roles and responsibilities through collaborative project management.


• Integration with Business Engineering and Organisational Behaviour Techniques: Incorporating methodologies from Business Engineering and Organisational Behaviour for enhanced project integration.


• Minimised Inter-Project Coordination: Streamlining coordination between different projects.


• Alignment with Business Strategy: Ensuring that Business Engineering projects are managed in alignment with the strategic direction of the business. 

DISCON Specialists Management System


Introduction

DISCON Specialists provides its Project Management System for several compelling reasons:


1. Addressing Complexity, Scope, and Duration:

Given the intricate nature, extensive scope, and prolonged timelines associated with Business Engineering projects, our Project Management System serves as a crucial tool.


2. Formal Framework for Project Production and Management:

The system establishes a formal framework that facilitates the production and management of projects. This structured approach enhances efficiency and ensures that projects are executed with precision.


3. Ensuring Repeatable Processes for Predictability:

We aim for a repeatable process to enhance predictability. Predictability is achievable only when a standardised process is in place, offering reliability in terms of cost estimates, project schedules, and the delivery of functional and high-quality products.


The DISCON Specialists Project Management System comprises four integrated systems, creating a comprehensive project management environment. These systems are designed with a degree of flexibility to allow users across all DISCON Specialists installations to effectively apply the methodology. Simultaneously, the system seamlessly integrates the essential disciplines of Project Management, Organisational Behaviour, and Architecture, which collectively contribute to the successful delivery of projects.


Project Management System

1. Project Definition Workshop (PDW):

The Project Definition Workshop serves as a means to holistically examine the scope of the proposed project, encompassing aspects such as the business area, participants, parameters, and mandate.


2. Project Planning System (PPS):

The Project Planning System is primarily dedicated to the systematic phasing, planning, and estimation of the proposed project.


3. Project Organisation System (POS):

The Project Organisation System focuses on establishing an optimal project organisational structure, serving as a foundational framework for project implementation.


4. Project Directing System (PDS):

The Project Directing System (PDS) plays a pivotal role in overseeing and guiding the project towards successful completion.


5. Project Control System:

The Project Control System introduces a suite of instruments, techniques, and mechanisms designed to effectively monitor and control various facets of the project.

DISCON Specialists Meta Model for the Project Management System

person using laptop

Plan

  1. Define Project
  2. Strategise the Business Engineering Project
  3. Initiate Sub plans to enable the Solution that will be delivered
  4. Synchronise deliverable's across Three Architectural Levels
  5. Extend Project Plan with Exceptions and Detail
  6. Eliminate and Contain Risk
  7. Estimate Project Resources
  8. Obtain Approval
white calendar

Organise

  1. Determine Resource Requirement
  2. Acquire Resources
three men sitting while using laptops and watching man beside whiteboard

​​Direct

  1. Ensure a Conductive Project Environment
  2. Delegate Tasks
  3. Ensure Team Members Understanding of the Required Tasks
  4. Conduct Sessions/Project Meetings/Presentations /Workshop Reviews
black flat screen tv turned on in a room

Control

  1. Determine Work Progress.
  2. Identify Exceptions and their Impact.
  3. Ensure Efficient Resource Utilisation.
  4. Ensure Strategic Alignment of Project with Business.
  5. Report Project Status.
  6. Manage Change.
  7. Control Quality.
  8. Ensure Adherence to Standards.
  9. Control Project Risk.