All MSP-Practitioner Test Inside PeopleCert Questions

MSP Principles represent the foundational success factors distilled from extensive lessons learned across programmes that have succeeded or failed. They embody the best practices and mindset that underpin effective programme management. The MSP Practitioner explains: “MSP Principles are derived from lessons learned in programmes that had both positive and negative results. They represent common factors that underpin the success of any programme of transformational change.” These principles ensure that programmes remain focused on strategic alignment, benefit realization, and stakeholder engagement throughout their lifecycle. They act as the guiding philosophies that help ensure programme success regardless of the context or complexity.

Comprehensive and Detailed 200 to 250 words of Explanation From Exact Extract of project-programme-and-portfolio-management of 5th Edition MSP:

In MSP 5th Edition, the 'Justification' and 'Benefits' themes emphasize that benefits must be measurable and expressed in a way that allows for objective assessment of the programme's value. When a CFO requests a Net Present Value (NPV) calculation, they are looking for a financial representation of the programme's worth. NPV is a financial metric used to represent the value of future cash flows in today's terms. Therefore, the benefits feeding into this calculation must be expressed in financial terms.

Option B is the correct answer because "cost savings" are tangible, financial benefits that can be directly used in an NPV calculation. In the context of the UU scenario, HR efficiencies leading to reduced staff costs provide a direct cash-flow impact. While Option C (additional sales) is also financial, it is often more speculative than cost savings. Option D uses a "cash proxy," which is a technique used in MSP to assign a monetary value to non-financial benefits (like customer satisfaction), but since the scenario specifically mentions HR efficiencies and cost-saving metrics are already available, a direct financial measure is preferred for a formal NPV. Option A is incorrect because non-financial measures (like brand reputation) cannot be directly included in an NPV formula without conversion. MSP 5th Edition stresses that the Business Case must be supported by a robust Benefit Realization Plan where financial benefits are clearly quantified to justify the investment.

Approval to proceed is a critical input for the 'Managing the Tranches' process. Without formal approval, the programme cannot move into tranche delivery phases. The MSP Practitioner specifies: “Without approval to proceed, programme will not enter this process.” This highlights the formal gating and control process essential for structured programme progression.

Comprehensive and Detailed 200 to 250 words of Explanation From Exact Extract of project-programme-and-portfolio-management of 5th Edition MSP:

In MSP 5th Edition, the Programme Strategy is a high-level document that outlines how the programme will be directed and managed. One of its vital components is the Design Approach. This section defines how the programme will design its future state, which includes the development of the Vision Statement and the Target Operating Model (TOM). The design approach specifies the methods, tools, and consultative processes (such as workshops) that will be used to ensure the design is robust and meets the strategic objectives.

The statement regarding the facilitated workshop for developing and testing the vision statement is a procedural detail of the "design" phase of the programme. Option C is correct because the vision statement is the cornerstone of the programme's design; it describes the "post-transformation" world. Therefore, the methodology for creating it—including who is involved (senior officers) and who approves it (CEO)—belongs in the Design Approach. While this involves stakeholders (Option B) and decisions (Option D), those are broader themes. The specific activity of forming the vision is a design activity. The Design Approach ensures that there is a structured way to move from the initial mandate to a clear, agreed-upon vision that guides all subsequent tranches and projects.