How should Programme Management change to keep up with Modern Complexity?

Programmes are the mechanism for delivering complex and transformative change.  However, success is not certain, and the desired outcomes are not always achieved.

Is this because, as is frequently stated, the context within which programmes are delivered, and the programmes themselves, are increasing in complexity? If that’s the case, does programme management need to change to keep up with modern complexity?  Or are we like Aristotle some 2,300 years ago complaining about the ‘youth of today’ where each generation simply perceives their environment as being more complex than the previous generation. Whether or not our programmes and their context are more complex, the nature of complexity is certainly changing. So, if we believe programme management should change to reflect this, then how?

We will draw on members’ expertise and experience to considering these questions. To inform the discussion we are undertaking two pieces of work that will be completed and shared with you in advance of the event.

Firstly, a facilitated round table discussion of experts in the field to gain multiple perspectives on whether programmes, and the context within which they are delivered, is truly becoming more complex.
Secondly, an exploration of potential alternative or evolving approaches to delivering programmes, such as systems approaches, mission based approaches, community-led approaches to name a few
Using our background discussion and study as a basis, this event will provide the opportunity for attendees to hear from the leaders of two programmes that have different complexity drivers and two programmes which have taken different approaches to delivery; providing insights into how different contexts and perceptions have helped shape explorative approaches to delivery. Alongside these industry insights, attendees will also hear from leading bodies about what they believe are the most important considerations to tackle complexity when delivering programmes.

Later in the schedule we will allow time for a facilitated discussion, giving you the opportunity to consider what you have heard and explore ideas with your peers before reaching individual positions, and potentially group consensus, around the question of change within programme management.

Given the broad context and nature of the topic, there will be a unique approach to following up on the event; as well as sharing materials in advance, we want to gain your insights through a pre and post event survey; obtain your feedback throughout the event to help shape the final workshop sessions and; also ask you to capture your thoughts on video – more to follow on this.