PRINCE2 is a structured project management method that helps you plan, execute and complete projects successfully. The abbreviation stands for 'PRojects IN Controlled Environments 2' and was developed by the British government. This method provides you with a step-by-step plan with clear processes, principles and themes that allow you to manage projects in an organised manner. PRINCE2 is flexible and can be adapted to projects of any size, in any sector.
What is the PRINCE2 method?
PRINCE2 is a process-oriented project management method used worldwide to execute projects in a structured and controlled manner. The method was originally developed in 1989 by the British government as PRINCE and was revised in 1996 as PRINCE2.
The name is an abbreviation for “PRojects IN Controlled Environments 2” and refers to the core idea: executing projects in a well-controlled environment. This means working with clear processes, roles and responsibilities.
PRINCE2 consists of three main parts:
- 7 principles that form the basis for good project management
- 7 themes that describe how to approach different aspects of the project
- 7 processes that explain the steps from start to finish of the project
The beauty of PRINCE2 is that you can adapt it to the needs of your project. You don't have to use all the elements - you choose the parts that really add value.
What are the 7 principles of PRINCE2?
The 7 principles form the foundation of PRINCE2 and guide your entire project approach. They are based on years of practical experience and help you make the right decisions.
These are the seven core principles:
- Lasting business justification – You only start and continue a project if there is a clear business case that justifies the investment.
- Learning from experiences – You look at previous projects to avoid mistakes and repeat successes.
- Defined roles and responsibilities – Everyone in the project knows exactly what their tasks and responsibilities are.
- Managing in phases – You divide the project into manageable parts that you plan, execute and evaluate separately.
- Managing by exception – You give teams the space to work independently within agreed boundaries.
- Product-oriented approach – You focus on what the project should deliver (the products) instead of just on activities.
- Adapt to the project environment – You adapt the method to the size, complexity and risks of your project.
By consistently applying these principles, you ensure that your project remains goal-oriented and that everyone knows what is expected of them.
How does the PRINCE2 method work in practice?
In practice, PRINCE2 translates into a clear structure that helps you manage your project from start to finish. It works as a roadmap that guides you through all phases of your project.
You start by setting up a project organization with clear roles such as:
- Project board (including the client)
- Project manager
- Team leaders and team members
Then you go through the seven processes:
- Starting a project
- Initiating a project
- Steering a project
- Mastering a phase
- Managing product delivery
- Managing phase transitions
- Closing a project
For each process you use specific documents such as the project mandate, the business case and the project plan. These documents are not an end in themselves, but help you to maintain insight and substantiate decisions.
In the execution you focus on managing six important aspects (the themes): business case, organization, quality, plans, risks and progress. This ensures a project management approach that is both comprehensive and flexible.
What is the difference between PRINCE2 and agile project management?
PRINCE2 and agile are two different approaches to project management that each have their own strengths. The main difference lies in their principles and methods.
PRINCE2 is a plan-driven method that works with detailed upfront planning and formal control processes. It is ideal for projects where the requirements and solutions are fairly clear at the outset and where risk management is important.
Agile project management, on the other hand, is adaptive and works with short iterations (sprints) in which you always deliver a working part of the final product. It is perfect for projects where the requirements can still change and where you want to deliver value quickly.
| PRINCE2 | Agile |
|---|---|
| Plan-driven | Adaptive |
| Formal documentation | Light documentation |
| Clear hierarchy | Self-organizing teams |
| Focus on control | Focus on value and collaboration |
There is also PRINCE2 Agile, a hybrid approach that combines the structure of PRINCE2 with the flexibility of agile. This gives you the best of both worlds: a clear framework with room for adjustments during the project.
Which PRINCE2 certifications are available?
If you want to officially validate your PRINCE2 knowledge, you can choose from several certifications. These are valuable for your career in project management.
There are three main levels of PRINCE2 certification:
- PRINCE2 Foundation – This is the basic level which tests your knowledge of the terminology and principles. It is ideal if you are just starting out with PRINCE2 or if you are working in a project team.
- PRINCE2 Practitioner – This advanced level tests your ability to apply PRINCE2 to a variety of project situations. It is aimed at project managers and people responsible for projects.
- PRINCE2 Professional – The highest level that assesses your practical skills in realistic scenarios. This is intended for experienced project managers.
For each certification you take an exam that tests your knowledge. For Foundation this is a multiple choice test, while Practitioner contains more scenario based questions. The certifications are internationally recognized and remain valid for 3 years (for Practitioner).
There are also special certifications such as PRINCE2 Agile, which help you combine PRINCE2 with agile methods.
How do you implement PRINCE2 in your organization?
Implementing PRINCE2 in your organisation requires a well-considered approach. It is more than just training people – it is about changing how you approach projects.
Start creating awareness and support with management. Without their support, implementation becomes difficult. Explain the benefits: better control, clearer communication and higher chances of success of projects.
Then you can follow these steps:
- Train a core group of employees in PRINCE2 principles
- First apply PRINCE2 in a pilot project
- Evaluate the results and adjust where necessary
- Develop your own templates and methods that suit your organization
- Roll out PRINCE2 gradually to more projects
- Provide ongoing support and coaching
The most important advice: adapt PRINCE2 to your organization. Use what works and leave out what doesn't. PRINCE2 is flexible enough to adapt to your specific situation.
Implementation takes time and requires patience. Focus on the long-term benefits and celebrate the small successes along the way.
Would you like to know more about how to successfully apply PRINCE2 in your specific situation? Please feel free to contact us contact Contact us for customized advice or information about our training courses.
