What is PRINCE2^®?

PRINCE2 is a globally recognized framework for project management that is supplemented by best practices. It combines controlled project processes, progress monitoring and flexible decision-making structures. With the integration of PRINCE2 Portfolio Management (MoP), Program Management (MSP) and Risk Management (MoR), it offers a scalable and comprehensive framework for the strategic management of projects, programs and portfolios as well as structured risk management.

PRINCE stands for "Projects in Controlled Environments", as the standard was called when it was created in 1989 at the Central Computer and Telecommunications Agency (CCTA) in Great Britain. PRINCE2, on the other hand, is known as the generally applicable derivative of the originally IT-specific approach. Today, the rights to the trademark are held by AXELOS, a joint venture between the CAPITA Group and the Cabinet Office.

To the PRINCE2 training courses

Thanks to continuous further development, the framework is highly applicable in all service organizations. As a result, PRINCE2 has become established worldwide and has risen to become one of the most widely used project management methods of all: Today, more than one million people hold a PRINCE2 certification.

Simply royal: PRINCE2 and its development

Introduction of PRINCE2 7 and PRINCE2 Agile

The latest version, PRINCE2 7, represents a further significant step in the evolution of this methodology. It builds on the proven principles of its predecessors and integrates the latest project management knowledge and practices. PRINCE2 7 focuses even more on flexibility and scalability to enable organizations to apply the methodology effectively to projects of varying size and complexity. In addition, PRINCE2 Agile has been introduced to increase agility and responsiveness in project management processes.

Integration of M_o_R, MSP and MoP

In a further significant development, PRINCE2 was expanded to include the elements of Risk Management (M_o_R), Program Management (MSP) and Portfolio Management (MoP). This integration reflects the growing need to manage not only projects, but also larger programs and portfolios under a unified methodology. This allows organizations to take a more coherent and comprehensive approach to their management approach, leading to improved strategic decisions and more efficient use of resources.

PeopleCert as rights holder and developer of PRINCE2

Today, PRINCE2 is managed and further developed by PeopleCert. PeopleCert took over the rights to PRINCE2 from AXELOS in 2022 and is committed to continuously improving and updating the methodology. With this leadership, PeopleCert ensures that PRINCE2 continues to meet the changing needs of the global business world and remains at the forefront of project management.

PRINCE2 today

With the introduction of PRINCE2 7, PRINCE2 Agile and the addition of M_o_R, MSP and MoP, the methodology remains a leading tool in global project management. It is used in over 150 countries and is known for its methodological accuracy and adaptability. PRINCE2 therefore remains essential for organizations that want to strengthen their project management skills and efficiently implement their strategic goals.

Conclusion

The history of PRINCE2 demonstrates the adaptability and importance of effective project management. From its beginnings as a specific IT management method to the latest version PRINCE2 7 and the integration of PRINCE2 Agile as well as M_o_R, MSP and MoP, the development of the methodology reflects the evolution and growing needs of organizations around the world.

The PRINCE2:

PRINCE2 7 Foundation

• Target group: Beginners in project management or team members who want to understand the basics.
• Content: This course provides basic knowledge of PRINCE2 methods and terminology. Participants will learn the seven principles, processes and themes of PRINCE2 and how these are applied in a project environment.
• Certificate: After passing the final exam, participants receive the PRINCE2 Foundation certificate.

PRINCE2 7 Practitioner

• Target group: Project managers and advanced project participants who want to apply PRINCE2 in their projects.
• Content: Deepens the knowledge of the Foundation Level and focuses on the application of PRINCE2 in real project scenarios. Participants learn to use PRINCE2 flexibly and adapted to the specific conditions of a project.
• Prerequisite: PRINCE2 Foundation Certificate.
• Certificate: After passing the exam, participants receive the PRINCE2 Practitioner certificate.

PRINCE2 Agile

• Target group: Project managers who want to integrate agile techniques into their PRINCE2 projects.
• Content: This course combines the proven practices of PRINCE2 with the flexibility and responsiveness of agile methods such as Scrum and Kanban. It is aimed at teams in dynamic working environments that require a high degree of adaptability.
• Certificate: PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner Certificate after passing the exam.

PRINCE2 Risk Management (M_o_R)

• Target group: Managers and decision-makers involved in risk management.
• Content: The course covers risk analysis, risk assessment and risk management and how these processes can be applied in different organizational contexts.
• Certificate: M_o_R Practitioner Certificates.

PRINCE2 Program Management (MSP)

• Target group: Program managers and those who manage complex changes across multiple projects.
• Content: MSP covers the principles of program management, governance issues and the effective delivery of change through the coordinated management of multiple projects.
• Certificate: MSP Foundation and MSP Practitioner certificates.

PRINCE2 Portfolio Management (MoP)

• Target group: Portfolio managers and anyone who makes decisions about a portfolio of projects and programs.
• Content: The training focuses on how to effectively manage a portfolio to select the right projects and programs that meet organizational goals and strategies.
• Certificate: MoP Foundation 

These courses offer comprehensive training opportunities for professionals who want to improve their skills in project, program and portfolio management and are adapted to the needs of different roles and industries.