Martyn R Phillips

In Search of Value - Part 1, Managing Expectations Martyn R Phillips

This book follows on from "In Search of Value - Closing the Performance Gap with Value Assurance- Overview". Part 1 focuses on behavioural aspects and mainly WHY improvements should be applied, (while Part 2 focuses particularly on HOW significant improvements may be made). The series forms the basis of a comprehensive training program for professionals in project, risk and value management. It stimulates a way of thinking. The underlying purpose of the series is to provide an overall understanding of an opportunity-based approach derived by combining these applications. A strategic approach is encouraged, not just another bureaucratic procedure or "one-size fits all" prescriptive remedies. This book facilitates a journey toward improved management practices and a team innovation, informed decision-making and consensus building approach. It introduces an iterative, systems process that produces a high level of focused and tested information in a very short time. The systems thinking approach enables well founded, collaborative decisions on program/project strategy, scope, components and contractual arrangements. With shrinking resources and continually growing regulations, organizations are benefiting from the competitive edge provided by this distinctive, strategic thinking and development methodology. Decisions on procurement of major services and equipment are made with confidence -and in less time. The application of value assurance ensures that the service promised to be delivered by the business plan will in fact be available, fully functional and will yield the anticipated return on capital investment and operations budgets. Anyone who is required to direct, plan or control an investment in resources, to meet time, cost and quality parameters will benefit from reading the books in this series. The books are intended particularly for the use of persons who: - Initiate or enable projects, systems, product development or programs of work/services - Make long-lasting decisions on issues that will have far-reaching effects - Are responsible for implementing study recommendations, or, - Wish to appreciate group problem solving and decision-making steps - Participate in, or support, value and risk management innovation workshops. The series relates to both the improvement of management ("soft") services and systems as well as the procurement of new, replacement, refurbished or expanded ("hardware") facilities and systems. This pre-supposes that program management and procurement are supported as high level, strategic management functions to initiate a new or modified product or service. Consideration of "people" aspects is of paramount importance. Inevitably, change will occur if improvement is to be obtained. Therefore aspects of change management are also discussed, along with the establishment of a program of performance improvement within an organization. Example application areas are: systems and services planning; asset management; operations development; information technology; manufacturing; environmental remediation; infrastructure expansion, organizational reviews, redeployment or rightsizing together with longer-term transformation to a more "upbeat" and effective organization. Persons new to group decision-making will quickly gain an insight to what is involved in participating in a study and particularly the innovation workshops. For "old hands", the series will act as a convenient aide-memoire for the content and order of each step in the performance/value improving process. By acquainting all participants of the process and requirements of the value assurance approach, maximum benefit will be derived. Key topics: behavioural aspects, success factors, consensus building, value improvement, change management, project management, training approach.