MSP® 5th Edition Foundation & Practitioner

About this course

Introduction

The MSP Foundation and Practitioner course provides a thorough introduction to the Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) methodology. It is also a practical guide for applying MSP in real-world scenarios. Learners will become well-equipped to lead, support, or advise program teams within MSP environments.

The MSP methodology offers a structured approach to effective program management in any industry. MSP encompasses proven processes and principles that support managers in separating complex programs into manageable projects which are perfectly aligned with business goals.

More about the course

This MSP online course provides a fast-track to becoming a fully-certified MSP practitioner. MSP is renowned for its flexibility, and learners who complete this course will be capable of managing programs of any type or size.

Professionals working within the MSP framework focus on strategic business goals and benefits to be delivered. The program structure is then established, with roles and responsibilities defined in detail. Management of risks, issues, and quality becomes an ongoing activity, with processes in place to cover every aspect of governance and documentation throughout the program lifecycle.

Benefits for Individuals

to program management. The number and importance of transformation programs have increased across virtually all industries.

Program managers who can successfully utilize the flexible MSP approach are an important asset in achieving challenging business objectives.

MSP qualifications also provide students with significant advantages, with MSP practitioners often enjoying greater career and networking opportunities than non-certified colleagues.

This training course focuses on the core MSP Principles, Governance Themes, and Transformational Flows.

It also highlights the importance of stakeholder management and the inter-relationships between every aspect of program management.

Benefits for Organizations

Program teams operating under the MSP methodology can utilize a common language and approach.

This greatly improves collaboration, efficiency, and stakeholder engagement whilst also keeping business goals central to program delivery.

This combined course can help organizations to:

Build clearly-defined projects based on corporate initiatives
Combine projects to deliver programs on time and within budget
Identify and support stakeholders
Effectively manage risk and change
Efficiently audit programs for quality assurance
Deliver programs with fewer issues and productivity losses

Course Outline

MSP Foundation

Module1: Course overview

This module offers an introduction to MSP and what makes the methodology unique and useful.

It also includes an outline of the course content and introduces learners to their learning objectives.

Module 2: Program introduction and principles

This module describes what constitutes a program within an MSP environment.

It explores the characteristics of programs, their triggers, and how they interrelate.

The three core elements of MSP are also covered: Principles, Governance Themes, and Transformational Flows.

There is a focus on the Principles of MSP and their contribution to overall program success. These include Alignment with Corporate Strategy, Leading Change, and Communicating the Future.

Module 3: Governance Themes

This module examines the nine Governance Themes of MSP, including the Business Case, Quality Management, and Planning and Control.

It also describes the key roles within MSP governance, such as the Senior Responsible Owner and the Program Office.

Module 4: Programme Organization

This module describes the key roles as defined by MSP, as well as their responsibilities and core functions. These include the Program Board, Programme Manager, and Business Change Manager.

It also covers the membership of MSP groups, as well as the characteristics and purpose of a well-organized program structure.

Module 5: Vision

This module introduces the Vision Statement and outlines its content and purpose.

It describes how to structure an MSP Vision Statement that displays the correct content and characteristics.

The Theme of Vision Governance is also described within the context of the roles of SRPs, Program Managers, and BCMs.

Module 6: Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement

This module examines stakeholders within MSP in terms of their roles and interactions with Program Managers.

Relevant definitions and tools associated with stakeholder engagement in MSP are also outlined.

Stakeholder messaging and communications are also covered, with a focus on the four elements of successful communication.

Module 7: Benefits Management

This module examines Benefits Management as a practice within MSP and introduces four validation tests for judging a benefit.

It also explores the language of explaining benefits in change terms.

The outputs, outcomes, and benefits of a program are described, along with a four-step cycle for managing program benefits. Benefits maps and benefits profiles are also outlined in terms of their purpose and content.

Module 8: Blueprint Design and Delivery

This module looks at the importance of POTI (Processes, Organization, Technology, and Information) models in the design and delivery of blueprints.

The content of blueprints in MSP is also covered, along with the purpose of tranches and workstreams.

Module 9: Planning and Control

This module looks at the definition of MSP resources, putting them in the context of Planning and Control.

The core Planning and Control concepts are also examined, including how to plan and strategize resource management.

Project dossiers are also covered in detail, along with project monitoring and managing program dependencies.

Module 10: Business Case

This module details the content and purpose of a ‘Business Case’ at each stage of the program lifecycle.

Program costs are also explained.

Module 11: Risk and Issue Management

This module examines the core definitions within Risk Management. Learners will look in detail at different types and sources of risk.

They will also learn how to describe Impact, Probability, and Proximity.

Essential tools for managing risks and issues will be introduced, including probability impact grids and risk registers.

Module 12: Quality and Assurance Management

This module covers the core concepts of high-quality program delivery.

The concepts covered include auditing, measurement, assurance, and gated reviews.

Learners will explore the purpose and scope of quality and assurance tools such as Asset and Configuration Management.

Module 13: Transformational Flow

This module explores each of the six Transformational Flow Processes within MSP.

The core activities are described at each stage of pre-transition, transition, and post-transition.

The key documents within Transformational Flow are also examined, including the Program Brief and Program Definition Document.

The importance of the process of Closing a Program and the tests involved are also explained.

MSP Practitioner

Module 1: Principles and Governance overview

This module reviews the core concepts of MSP and the drivers for change programs.

The program governance roles within the program lifecycle are also described. Learners will then be introduced to the importance of business alignment.

Module 2: Organization and the Programme Office

This module covers the core organization concepts of program governance, including the role of the Program Office.

The activities expected of program members are also described, along with Transformational Flow activities.

Module 3: Vision

This module looks at vision statements in detail, including the importance of keeping them unchanged.

It also describes the appropriate development and maintenance of vision statements.

Module 4: Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement

This module examines the cycle of stakeholder engagement in terms of its contents and key factors.

The strategy for stakeholder engagement is explored, along with the accompanying concepts of stakeholder management and stakeholder maps.

The program communications plan, change management, and the interest/ influence matrix are also described.

Stakeholder management roles are detailed, along with the transformational flow activities of the Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement Governance Theme.

Module 5: Benefits Management

This module explores the key drivers for Benefits Management and benefits categorization.

Benefits measurements, financial impacts, and corporate objectives are all described.

Strategies, maps, profiles, and realization plans as part of Benefits Management are also explored.

Module 6: Blueprint Design and Delivery

This module describes the characteristics of the Blueprint Design and Delivery Governance Theme.

The importance of collaboration with other Governance Themes is covered, as well as document alignment. The process of arranging solutions into projects, tranches, and workstreams is also described, along with options analysis.

Module 7: Planning and Control

This module explains Planning and Control, including its key concepts and monitoring and controlling strategy.

Program and project plans, along with dossiers and project briefs, are also examined.

Resource management planning and strategy are explored, as are benefits profiles and realization planning. Planning and Control roles through the program lifecycle are also described.

Module 8: Risk and Issue Management

This module explores the purpose, principles, and key areas of program risk management.

The contents of the issue and risk registers are described, along with issue and risk management strategies.

The framework and cycles of risk and issue management are also examined, along with configuration management and change control.

Risks and issues for each role in the program lifecycle are described in the context of risk attitude and tolerance.

Module 9: Business Case

This module examines the relationships between MSP Principles and the Business Case.

Program information documents are described in the context of significant changes within a Business Case.

Guidance is given for applying the Business Case for different roles in the program lifecycle.

Module 10: Quality and Assurance Management

This module explores Quality and Assurance Management, its key concepts, and planning and strategy for information management.

Techniques for optimal program delivery are outlined, as are health checks and maturity assessments.

The roles and responsibilities within Quality and Assurance Management are also covered, along with appropriate information management systems.

Module 11: Transformational Flow

This module describes the six processes involved in Transformational Flow, including the core roles and responsibilities in each process.

The documents and information for completing each process are detailed, including program mandate and briefing.

Program closure and the formal approvals required during a program are also covered.

Practice Exam Simulators

A set of practice exams are presented to the learner to simulate the official MSP Practitioner exam.

Exam/Assessment

The course includes exam vouchers for the MSP Foundation and Practitioner certification examinations. The exams can be taken virtually online using a service provided by PeopleCert.

MSP Foundation

Objective testing
75 questions (and five trial questions)
50% required to pass
60 minutes
Closed book
Online proctored exam OR an approved test center (Pearson Vue/Prometric)

MSP Practitioner

It is important to note that individuals must hold an MSP Foundation certificate to be eligible to take the Practitioner examination.
Objective testing
Eight questions per paper, 80 marks available in total
40 marks/ 50% required to pass
150 minutes/2.5 hours
Open book – Only the official printed hard copy of the ‘Managing a Successful Programme Guide’ is allowed
Online Proctored exam

What do you get?

12 months’ access from the date of purchase to complete your training
25+ hours of online training content
Exam vouchers
Access through multiple devices
Offline player for studying on the move
Tutor support

FAQs

What is MSP?

MSP, or ‘Managing Successful Programmes’, is a structured methodology for effective program management. It is a proven and established methodology made up of several distinct Principles, Governance Themes, and Transformational Flows, which can be applied to virtually any program.

Who owns MSP?

MSP is owned by AXELOS Ltd. It is a certification scheme that offers three levels of certification: Foundation, Practitioner, and Advanced Practitioner.

Is this MSP course accredited?

Yes, the MSP Foundation and Practitioner course has been accredited by PeopleCert on behalf of AXELOS Ltd.

What is the duration of this course?

The seat time of the course is approximately 25 hours. This includes all the learning modules, revision modules, module-level assessments, and mock exams.

How long can users access this course?

Learners receive 12 months of access from the purchase date of the course.

How long is the exam voucher valid for?

The exam vouchers are valid for 12 months.

How can the exam be taken?

The course includes exam vouchers for the MSP Foundation and Practitioner certification examinations. The exams can be taken virtually online using a service provided by PeopleCert.

Does the course include a manual?

The course does not require a manual.

What you will learn

Introduction to MSP®:

Understand the principles, themes, and processes of the MSP® framework. Learn about the structure of programmes and how they differ from projects and portfolios.

Programme Management Principles:

Gain insights into the principles that underpin successful programme management, including leadership and stakeholder engagement, benefits management, and governance.

MSP® Themes:

Explore the seven MSP® themes, including organizational change management, vision, blueprint design and delivery, leadership and stakeholder engagement, benefits management, risk and issue management, and quality management.

MSP® Processes:

Learn about the MSP® transformational flow, which consists of the processes required to manage a programme from conception to delivery. Understand each process’s purpose, activities, inputs, outputs, and key roles and responsibilities.

Programme Governance:

Understand the role of governance in programme management and how to establish effective governance structures and mechanisms to ensure programme success.

Benefits Management:

Learn how to identify, define, plan, realize, and sustain benefits throughout the programme lifecycle. Understand the importance of benefits management and how to measure and track benefits realization.

Stakeholder Engagement:

Gain insights into stakeholder management strategies and techniques for engaging stakeholders throughout the programme lifecycle. Learn how to identify stakeholders, assess their interests and influence, and develop communication and engagement plans.

Risk Management:

Understand the principles and techniques of risk management in programme management. Learn how to identify, assess, prioritize, and respond to risks effectively to minimize their impact on programme objectives.

Quality Management:

Learn about the importance of quality management in programme management and how to ensure that programme deliverables meet predefined quality standards. Understand how to plan, monitor, and control quality throughout the programme lifecycle.

Blueprint Design and Delivery:

Explore the process of designing and delivering the programme blueprint, which outlines the programme’s vision, outcomes, capabilities, and delivery approach. Learn how to develop the blueprint and translate it into actionable plans and activities.

Leadership and Stakeholder Engagement:

Understand the role of leadership in programme management and how to engage and empower stakeholders to support programme objectives. Learn how to build effective leadership teams and foster a culture of collaboration and accountability.

Organizational Change Management:

Gain insights into the principles and techniques of organizational change management in programme management. Learn how to assess organizational readiness for change, develop change management plans, and support individuals and teams through the change process.

Overall, the MSP® 5th Edition Foundation & Practitioner course provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of programme management principles, themes, and processes, as well as practical skills and techniques for managing successful programmes.

Benefits of this course

Comprehensive Understanding:

Participants gain a comprehensive understanding of programme management principles, themes, and processes, providing them with a solid foundation for effective programme management practices.

Internationally Recognized Certification:

Completion of the MSP® 5th Edition Foundation & Practitioner course leads to internationally recognized certification, demonstrating competency in programme management according to the MSP® framework.

Enhanced Career Opportunities:

Certification in MSP® programme management enhances career opportunities for individuals by demonstrating their proficiency in managing complex programmes and delivering successful outcomes.

Improved Programme Management Skills:

Participants develop practical skills and techniques for planning, executing, and evaluating programmes, enabling them to effectively manage programmes from inception to delivery.

Alignment with Organizational Objectives:

The MSP® framework helps organizations align programme management practices with strategic objectives, ensuring that programmes contribute to the achievement of organizational goals and benefits realization.

Better Stakeholder Engagement:

Participants learn advanced stakeholder engagement techniques for effectively engaging and influencing stakeholders throughout the programme lifecycle, fostering collaboration and support for programme initiatives.

Risk Mitigation and Management:

The MSP® framework equips participants with tools and techniques for identifying, assessing, and managing programme risks, enabling them to minimize risks and disruptions to programme delivery.

Improved Benefits Realization:

Participants learn how to define, plan, and manage programme benefits effectively, ensuring that programmes deliver tangible value and benefits realization for stakeholders and the organization.

Enhanced Organizational Performance:

By implementing MSP® programme management practices, organizations can enhance their performance by delivering successful programmes that achieve strategic objectives, maximize benefits, and optimize resources.

Continuous Improvement:

The MSP® framework emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement, enabling organizations to learn from past experiences, refine programme management practices, and drive ongoing success.

Overall, the MSP® 5th Edition Foundation & Practitioner course provides individuals and organizations with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to effectively manage programmes, deliver successful outcomes, and drive organizational performance and success.

Original price was: £1,069.00.Current price is: £1,000.00.

Benefits Obtained :