Pure PRINCE2 - Starting Up a Project process

Question 1

What is the overall aim of the SU process?

Answer 1

The overall aims of the SU process are to ensure the prerequisites are in place before starting, and to determine if the project is worthwhile and worthy of the resources.

Ensures the prerequisites of a project are set up before it starts. Is the project viable and worthwhile? Stops unviable projects from starting

Question 2

When does the SU process fall?

Answer 2

The SU phase is the first process in PRINCE2. It technically falls outside of the project but starts after the PB authorises project initiation by providing a Project Mandate. This mandate can come from a variety of triggers (changes in legislation, competition). The SU process allows the PB to assess project scope, risks, benefits, costs and viability, and resource availability prior to committing to the project.

The SU and IP process can be merged into one phase if needed.

Question 3

In pure PRINCE 2, what are the six aims of the SU process?

Answer 3

1. Ensure there is business justification to start the project
2. Select the Project Approach
3. Ensure the necessary people are in place to deliver the IP process
4. Determine if there is enough information to outline the project scope
5. Ensure no time and resources are wasted on an unviable project
6. Ensure the necessary authority and team structure is in place

Question 4

In pure PRINCE2, what are the 10 steps of the SU process?

Answer 4

1. CP Board develops and releases the Project Mandate (spoken or written form)
2. CP establishes the team structure, sets the responsibilities of each role, and appoints the PB and PM
3. PB is finalised
4. PM sets up the lessons log and records past lessons
5. The PM team is confirmed and appointed
6. PE develops the Outline Business Case (OBC)
7. PM creates the Project Product Description (PPD)
8. The Project Approach (PA) is selected
9. PM assembles the Project Brief (PBr)
10. Plan IP stage

Once these steps are complete, the PM submits the Project Brief and asks the PB to approve the stage boundary and for permission to start the project.

Question 5

What is the Outline Business Case (OBC)?

Answer 5

The OBC Outlines the needs, costs, potential benefits and risks of a project. If the project is part of a wider programme, the OBC may already be in place.

it is developed by the PE from the Project Mandate and is approved by all stakeholders, the PM, and PA.

Question 6

What is the Project Product Description (PPD)?

Answer 6

The PPD outlines the final product that will be handed to the customer in terms of the composition, expected functionality, quality and purpose. It also outlines the skills and activities needed.

It is created by the PM and approved by the PB.

Question 7

What is the Project Approach (PA)?

Answer 7

The PA outlines how a project will be run and reach its goals.

The PA should be added to the Project Brief.

Question 8

What is the Project Brief (PBr)?

Answer 8

Consists of the OBC, the PPD, and the PA.