Difference betweeb PRINCE2 v7 and olde versions
How Does PRINCE2® Version 7 Differ from Previous Versions?
PRINCE2® (an acronym for PRojects IN Controlled Environments) is a globally recognized project management methodology. Originally developed for the UK government, it has since evolved and spread worldwide, with multiple updates reflecting advancements in project management practices. Below is an overview of how PRINCE2 has developed across its various versions, culminating in the recently launched version 7.
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The Development of PRINCE2 Versions
PRINCE2 Version 4 (2005–2009)
The earliest version that was widely trained and certified outside the UK (albeit to a modest extent) was version 4, valid from 2005 to 2009. The global uptake was in the hundreds rather than thousands beyond English-speaking countries. In version 4:
• Planning was outlined as part of the PRINCE2 process.
• Themes were referred to as “components,” totaling 8.
• Techniques were also identified as a distinct category, with 3 techniques defined.
• Processes numbered 8.
• A total of 36 project documents were defined.
• Principles were not formally defined in this version.
Though this version laid the groundwork for PRINCE2’s structured approach, it was still evolving and had not yet introduced the principles that are now a core feature of the methodology.
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PRINCE2 Version 5 (from 2009)
In 2009, PRINCE2 underwent a significant overhaul that led to version 5, which brought several notable changes:
• 7 Principles, 7 Themes, and 7 Processes were clearly defined.
• The number of project documents was reduced to 26.
• Processes were broken down into additional activities for more clarity.
• Some roles were removed, such as the “Configuration Librarian” and the “Project Support Office.”
Version 5 marked a major leap forward, aligning PRINCE2 more closely with modern project management practices. Due to its more streamlined nature, version 5 quickly became the default for training and certification worldwide.
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PRINCE2 Version 6 (2017)
In 2017, another update was released, initially called version 2017 but later renamed to version 6. The most noticeable changes were:
• Grammatical and Terminology Tweaks: Specialized terms in PRINCE2 were written in lowercase (e.g., “project brief,” “business case”).
• Introduction of “Approaches”: The concept of approaches was expanded, including how to tackle specific challenges or tasks.
• Tailoring as an Activity: Tailoring (i.e., adapting the method to fit the project context) was emphasized, particularly in the initiation process.
• Examples of Simple and Agile Projects: Version 6 offered guidance on applying and adapting PRINCE2 in both straightforward and agile environments.
Although version 6 was valid in parallel with version 5, especially in regions where language translations lagged, the foundational PRINCE2 content remained largely the same. However, the certification exams underwent major adjustments:
• Using the Bloom scale, the PRINCE2 Practitioner exam shifted from roughly Bloom levels 1–2 (in version 5) to Bloom levels 3–4 in version 6, reflecting a higher level of complexity and understanding required.
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PRINCE2 Version 7 (Launched September 2023)
In September 2023, version 7 of PRINCE2 was introduced, representing a comprehensive overhaul of the methodology. While it retains the well-known structure of:
• 7 Principles
• 7 Processes
• 7 Practices (former Themes)
…there is a new and stronger focus on:
1. People and Relationships: Recognizing that successful project outcomes hinge not only on formal processes but also on effective collaboration among project stakeholders.
2. Sustainability: Elevating sustainability to the status of a seventh project objective, ensuring that projects consider both the long-term impact of their products and the environmental footprint during and after the project lifecycle.
3. Integration with Agile Methods: Placing even greater emphasis on blending PRINCE2 with agile approaches, acknowledging that many organizations use hybrid models.
As part of its forward-looking focus, version 7 also provides more nuanced guidance for managing project products and deliverables. This ensures that the methodology remains relevant in today’s rapidly changing project landscapes, including digital transformation projects and highly collaborative environments.
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The Future of PRINCE2 Certifications
Currently, versions 5, 6, and 7 all coexist. However, AXELOS has announced that by 2024, the option to take certification tests in version 5 or version 6 will be phased out. The speed of the transition depends largely on how quickly version 7 can be translated into key languages worldwide.
For project managers and organizations, this means that training providers, consultancies, and educational institutions will pivot their offerings to version 7. Those who have recently been certified in earlier versions may wish to upskill to the newest version to stay up-to-date with best practices, particularly in areas like sustainability and people-centric management.
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Conclusion
With version 7, PRINCE2 has undergone a significant transformation, balancing its traditional strengths in structured process control with modern project management needs such as agility, sustainability, and stakeholder collaboration. While earlier versions laid the necessary groundwork, version 7 is a leap forward in aligning PRINCE2 with the evolving demands of today’s global and fast-paced project environment.