Scoping transformational major projects to realise their full benefits

Transformational make up the single largest category of projects within the Government Major Project Portfolio – 53 projects (out of 114) worth £116 billion. The proportion of private sector projects which are transformational is less easy to determine but they are no less frequent.

This type of project can be particularly challenging. The National Audit Office’s (NAO) reports show that “while all programmes can suffer from problems like defining scope, engaging with stakeholders effectively and managing performance, transformation programmes are particularly prone to challenges in these areas … the full scope of these transformation programmes is not easy to define upfront.” NAO Report “Lessons for Major Service Transformation”

They require complex changes to organisational structures; ways of working and the skills required. They often change the nature of commercial relationships with suppliers; and require major IT development programmes. Leading and managing transformational projects and programmes, whether they be in the public or the private sector, requires a different approach from traditional capital programmes such as infrastructure. Without a physical asset at the end of the project it can be very difficult to evaluate success. It is therefore imperative, before embarking, to be very clear about the long term benefits which are being sought and to scope them accordingly.

This half day seminar will explore how getting the scope right can impact upon the delivery journey and upon outcomes. Speakers will be drawn from both private and public sectors. Following the formal speakers we will then ask a panel of “experts” to share their lessons which apply across the wider project community.

This event will take place between 12-4.30pm. Full programme to follow.