P3O® Foundation Classroom

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

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 .

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

• All accompanying course material (hardcopy)
• Online pre-course
• The official P3O manual (digital & hardcopy)
• The cost of the P3O Foundation examination (valid for 12 months from purchase date. Exam must be taken online via remote proctor)

Optional extra:

• Take² exam insurance – A cost effective solution, providing insurance and peace of mind if things don’t go to plan with your first exam attempt. For more information and terms and conditions click here
• P3O Foundation exam simulator: Unlock exam success with our exam simulator! Conquer tests confidently with randomized multiple-choice practice questions and instant feedback. Enjoy unlimited access for 12 months from point of purchase.

Materials

Hardcopy ILX course material: You will be provided with a printed version of the ILX course material. This will be issued on day one of your course.

Digital and hardcopy official manual: You will be given access to both a digital and hardcopy version of the official manual. The hardcopy will be issued on day one of your course with your course material. For the digital version you will be sent an email invitation approximately two working days prior to course commencement to register on the Peoplecert portal. Once registered you will be able to access the digital version of your manual. Please note: There is a 5-year limitation in accessing your eBook.     

Exams are taken online via remote proctor. You will be sent an email invitation approximately two working days prior to course commencement to register on the Peoplecert portal. Once registered you will be able to book your online exam at a date and time of your choice. You are responsible for booking your own exam. For more information about how to take your exam and the technical requirements, please click here. 

Recertification: This certification has a renew within three years of the award date to remain current. There are multiple ways to recertify, more information regarding the options can be found here.

Exam format

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

This course would benefit:

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

There are no formal pre-requisites for taking the P3O Foundation examination.

Pre-course

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.