PRINCE2 is 34 years old. This project management method was created in 1989 as a successor to PROMPTII and was developed by the British government. Originally aimed at IT projects, PRINCE2 has grown into a broadly applicable approach used worldwide. Over the years, the method has undergone several updates, with major updates in 1996, 2005, 2009 and the most recent in 2017, with each version further improving the method and adapting it to the changing project environment.
What is the origin and history of PRINCE2?
PRINCE2 began life in 1989 as a direct successor to PROMPTII, a project management method developed in 1975. The British government, specifically the Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (CCTA, later renamed the Office of Government Commerce or OGC), created PRINCE2 to better manage IT projects.
The name PRINCE stands for “PRojects IN Controlled Environments” and the “2” was added in the first major revision in 1996. This addition marked a major shift from a method specifically for IT projects to a universal project approach that can be used in any sector.
In its early years, PRINCE2 was relatively complex and document-driven. It was designed for large government projects where strict control and extensive documentation were required. However, it soon became clear that its structure and principles were widely applicable, leading to its growing popularity outside government and outside the UK.
The method became the property of AXELOS in 2013, when the joint venture between the UK government and Capita plc was established. Under this new leadership, the method was further modernised and promoted internationally as a PRINCE2 standard for project management.
What are the major versions and updates of PRINCE2?
PRINCE2 has undergone several major updates over the years that have refined the method and adapted it to the changing needs of organizations:
PRINCE2 1996: The first major revision transformed the method from IT-specific to generally applicable. This version introduced the seven principles, themes and processes that still form the core of the method.
PRINCE2 2005: This update brought clarifications and improvements to the existing structure. The documentation was made more user-friendly and more emphasis was placed on adapting the method to different project sizes.
PRINCE2 2009: A major revision that simplified the method considerably. The focus shifted from following procedures to applying principles. The number of processes was reduced and the emphasis was on adapting PRINCE2 to the specific project context.
PRINCE2 2017: The most recent major update placed even more emphasis on flexibility and adaptability. This version introduced guidance for integrating PRINCE2 with agile practices, resulting in PRINCE2 Agile. The update further simplified the core guide and made the method more accessible to smaller organizations.
In between these major updates, there have also been smaller revisions that updated the terminology and continued to refine the method based on feedback from the field.
Why is PRINCE2 still relevant after all these years?
Despite being around for over three decades, PRINCE2 remains one of the most widely used project management methods worldwide. This is due to a number of factors that make the method timeless:
Principle-oriented approach: Rather than dictating strict rules, PRINCE2 provides seven universal principles that work in any project environment. This focus on principles rather than procedures ensures that the method remains relevant regardless of technological changes.
The flexibility of PRINCE2 is one of the main reasons for its continued relevance. You can adapt the method to projects of any size, in any sector. This “apply where needed” principle keeps the method practical and applicable in changing work environments.
PRINCE2 has also proven to work well with other methods. The integration with agile practices in PRINCE2 Agile shows that the method evolves with new developments in project management, allowing organizations to combine the best of different worlds.
In addition, the method provides a common language and structure for projects. In a time when teams are increasingly working internationally and remotely, this standardization is more valuable than ever.
How does the current PRINCE2 differ from the original version?
Today's PRINCE2 is significantly different from the original 1989 version. The main differences are:
Simplification: The original PRINCE2 was complex and document-driven, with a strong emphasis on procedures. The current version is streamlined and more practical, with less paperwork and more focus on what really adds value to the project.
While the original version was mainly aimed at IT projects within the British government, the modern PRINCE2 is universally applicable across all sectors and for projects of all sizes. The terminology has been generalised and the application possibilities have been broadened.
The latest version places much more emphasis on adapting the method to the specific project context. This “tailoring” aspect was minimal in the original version, but is now central to the PRINCE2 philosophy.
Another important difference is the integration with agile methods. The original PRINCE2 was entirely based on a waterfall approach, while the current version recognizes that a combination with agile methods is often beneficial. PRINCE2 Agile provides concrete guidelines for this hybrid approach.
Finally, accessibility has been greatly improved. The current documentation and training materials are more user-friendly, with clearer illustrations, practical examples and implementation guidelines.
What can you learn from the evolution of PRINCE2?
The development of PRINCE2 over the years provides valuable insights for project management professionals:
Firstly, it shows that adaptability essential for long-term success. PRINCE2 has remained relevant by adapting to changing market needs and ways of working, not by clinging to original rigid structures.
Evolution also shows that finding a balance between structure and flexibility is crucial. PRINCE2 has always provided a clear framework, but over time has allowed more room for adaptation to specific situations.
Another lesson is the importance of a principled approach over strict rules. By focusing on the underlying principles rather than fixed procedures, a method remains relevant and applicable in different contexts.
The integration with agile shows that combining different approaches is often more powerful than following one method exclusively. It is not a question of “either traditional or agile”, but of finding the right mix for each situation.
Finally, the evolution of PRINCE2 emphasises the importance of continuous learning and development. Keeping up with the latest developments in project management helps you to work more effectively and achieve better results.
Would you like to know more about how you can apply PRINCE2 within your organization or how you can combine it with agile working methods? Then contact us contact Contact us for tailored advice. We are happy to help you find the perfect balance between structure and flexibility for your projects.
