| Synopsis: |
"Management of Major Projects ("HC 489")" reports that with over 30 major projects, the Home Office is currently working on more than any other central civil government department with a combined estimated lifetime cost of GBP 15 billion. Steps taken to improve its project management approach: The Department established the Group Investment Board in 2003 to challenge, approve and monitor all major projects. In addition, it set up a centre of excellence which provides guidance and support for project managers and supports the Group Investment Board. The Home Office has strengthened oversight of projects with improved reporting on project progress. It has shown a great commitment to improving the capabilities and skills it needs to deliver these projects, developing a range of training and development initiatives to support project managers and project staff. It has led in the development of training for Senior Responsible Owners (senior staff accountable for the delivery of project benefits) and which is now available across Government. There is, however, scope for further improvements.Conclusions: The Home Office remains reliant on temporary staff and consultants who make up over 30 per cent of its major project teams. The Department has not used the information it has to assess whether or not there has been an improvement in performance in delivering projects to time and budget. It also needs to improve the accuracy and consistency of its project information and to improve management of risk. |