Applying PRINCE2 Lessons Learned
As a PRINCE2 project progresses Through its delivery stages, New information on the numerous actions taken, the way in which these were carried out, who carried out, what tools and techniques were used, and communication methods, can provide Lessons for future.
There is always a better way!
Because projects are unique and delivered by unique teams (even PRINCE2 projects), they can never be 100% correct in their execution.
This is the nature of the beast!
The PRINCE2 Method includes the creation of the lessons learned report at the project end, and suggests that lessons should be passed on at any point during the project if it makes sense to do so – Particularly at the end of each stage
As part of a structured approach to all project, it is a good idea to capture any useful lessons that become apparent as the project progresses.
This will provide you with a store of data on which to reflect at the end of the project. It will also help to identify any trends, both good and bad, running through the project, and a checklist for you to act on them and stop them becoming issues.
Make sure that your lessons learned data or document, is easy to update as you will be learning lessons during the busiest time of your project, so you do not have time to create fancy and complex documents.
A simple .txt File stored on your computer, or even handwritten notes in your ‘Filofax’ would be good. You can always transfer them into a structured e-document for onwards transmission at stage and project end as needed.
Such a file could be kept on the desktop of your computer or tablet.
Unfortunately, there is no immediate benefits to recording lessons learned information, And it can easily be overlooked.
If you are ever tried brainstorming ‘What we’d did well and what could be improved ‘At the end of a project – You will know how difficult it is to dredge up such facts.
Far better then, to capture them as you go – Even if they are just Brief memory-joggers.
Having a “lessons learned strategy” can be helpful right from the start of the project, and so the following list Is a useful aide memoire:
PRINCE2 Presentations and Meetings – Lessons Learned
When you have given a presentation, or attended a project presentation from one of your team members, Ask the following questions:
- Was everything communicated that was on the agenda?
- If something was missed out, what were the reasons?
- Did you run out of time?
- Did others spend too much time on other matters?
- Was the meeting hijacked by non-agenda items?
- Was any part of the presentation unnecessary?
- What will the reasons for any of the above and how did you fix them?
When you finish chairing a project meeting, ask the following questions:
- Was the meeting structured?
- Was everything on the agenda covered?
- Were there a lot of new items that were not included in your agenda?
- Did everyone have a chance to contribute?
When you are reviewing PRINCE2 stage status, ask yourself:
- What are the reasons for any items Behind schedule?
- Is there a specific problem with the individuals or a team?
When meeting with the Senior User or other stakeholders, ask the questions:
- Does the audience feel fully involved in the project?
- Are they committed to its success?
- Are they each receiving sufficient and timely information about the project?
- Are they receiving enough information about the project?
During the creation of the specialist products, were any of the following relevant?
- Do the team have sufficient skills and time to carry out their tasks?
- Are they using appropriate processes to create the product?
- Are the team using appropriate tools and techniques?
- Is the environment or facilities conducive for product development?
- Is a structured approach being used to product development?
- Is sufficient time allocated for product checking, testing, and authorizing?
PRINCE2 Project management lessons
- Was the PRINCE2 Product based planning techniques used in developing project and stage plans?
- Did the PRINCE2 process and techniques used for managing issues and risks work effectively?
- Where the team involved in the creation of the PRINCE2 plans?
- Were formal and informal progress checking methods appropriate?
- Did those provide resources to the project meets their commitments?
- Were the project board available when needed?
- Did the project manager have sufficient time to fulfill their management obligations?
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