MSP-Practitioner

The PEOPLECERT MSP Practitioner exam focuses on demonstrating understanding and application of the MSP® (Managing Successful Programmes) methodology. The main points covered broadly fall under these key areas:

• Understanding the MSP® Framework: This includes knowing the principles, governance, and overall structure of the MSP® methodology. You'll need to understand its purpose, benefits, and how it aligns with other project and programme management methodologies.

• Programme Governance and Assurance: A significant portion focuses on the governance processes within a programme, including setting up and maintaining the programme governance structure, reporting mechanisms, and risk and issue management processes. Assurance activities like audits are also key.

• Programme Lifecycle and Stages: You'll need to understand the MSP® lifecycle stages, what activities are performed in each, and how they link together. This includes understanding how to initiate, plan, deliver, close, and benefit realize a programme.

• Programme Management Office (PMO): The role and function of the PMO in enabling successful programme delivery is vital. This includes understanding its different types (supporting, directive, controlling) and how it contributes to governance and assurance.

• Stakeholder Engagement and Management: Identifying, understanding, and managing stakeholder expectations and influence is crucial. This covers techniques for communication, collaboration, and managing conflict.

• Risk and Issue Management: A thorough knowledge of identifying, assessing, responding to, and monitoring risks and issues within a programme is essential. Understanding risk appetite and tolerance levels is also included.

• Benefits Management: This is a critical area, focusing on defining, planning, delivering, and realizing the intended benefits of a programme. You'll need to understand how to measure and report on benefit realization.

• Programme Controls: This encompasses the various controls used to manage a programme effectively, including change controls, quality controls, and financial controls.

The exam tests your ability to apply this knowledge to scenario-based questions. Therefore, rote memorization isn't sufficient; you must understand the how and why of MSP® principles and processes. Focus on understanding the interrelationships between the various elements of the framework rather than individual components.