P3O® Foundation classroom

Learning objectives

By the end of this course you should understand the key principles and terminology within the P3O guidance. Specifically you should understand:

• High-level P3O model and its component offices
• Differences between Portfolio, Programme and Project Management
• Key functions and services of a P3O
• Reasons for establishing a P3O model
• Differences between types of P3O model and the factors that influence selection of the most appropriate model
• Processes to implement or re-energize a P3O
• Tools and techniques used by a P3O
• Purpose and major responsibilities of the defined roles

This is an intensive three-day course that includes the following:

• All accompanying course material
• The official P3O manual
• The cost of the P3O Foundation examination (the exam is taken on the last day of the course)

Refreshments will also be provided throughout the duration of your training.

What's covered?

P3O overview

• What a P3O is and why it is relevant
• Who the P3O guidance is aimed at
• The differences between projects, programmes, and portfolio management

P3O services and functions

• The objectives of each functional or service area
• Strategic planning, delivery support and centre of excellence
• Assurance services, through gated reviews or audit
• P3O governance

Model structures

• Services and functions delivered through various design models
• What kind of model to deploy
• The reporting structure of a P3O model
• Critical success factors of a P3O structure
• Information assurance for projects and programmes

How to operate a P3O

• Portfolio prioritisation, management dashboards, information portals and knowledge management
• Some of the facilitated workshops a P3O may be asked to lead
• Business process swim-lane diagrams and the benefits they can bring
• How approaches can be tailored for different demands

P3O roles and responsibilities

• Management, generic and functional P3O roles
• The purpose of each role, and be aware of some of the key responsibilities of each
• How the roles might be implemented within the various P3O models
• Some of the key skills and competencies needed within a P3O

Developing a P3O business case, why have a P3O?

• The benefits of a P3O, and the capabilities of a P3O
• The principles for extracting value. A value matrix
• What performance improvements can be expected

How to implement or re-energise a P3O

• A blueprint for a programme of change, for a successful P3O
• The lifecycle needed for P3O implementation
• How to setup and run a temporary office structure

Case studies

P3O Foundation examination preparation

• How to approach the P3O examination 
• Sample questions solved in an interactive and engaging manner

Please note: to assist your learning there are some pre-course reading and activities that must be completed prior to attending your course. In addition, whilst attending your course, there will also be some examination preparation evening work .

Target audience

This course would benefit:

• SRO’s/programme directors and managers
• Portfolio/programme/project office managers
• Project or programme office support staff and project managers

A concentrated course that requires you to complete mandatory online pre-course study, which is designed to take approximately three to four hours to complete. Full instructions with a link to the online pre-course will be issued within 48 hours of your confirmed booking.

Review the technical requirements for the online pre-course learning here.

• Multiple choice
• 75 questions - 70 live questions and 5 trial
• 60 minutes
• 50% pass mark - 35 out of 70
• Closed book

Welcome to ILX Group video links

Click on a video link below to find out more about ILX Group and our PRINCE2 training services.