The Praxis Framework provides the project manager with a structured approach when it comes to their project, program, and portfolio management (PPM). Let’s take a look at the benefits and risks of this framework:
The Benefits of Using the Praxis Framework
There are a number of benefits and risks to acknowledged when using the Praxis Framework. These are:
- Higher Project Success Rates – Several studies have indicated that when an organisation makes use of the Praxis Framework, they will in fact experience success rates that are much higher for their projects. The structured approach that is offered by the framework helps project managers to identify and then mitigate risks which can lead to better outcomes.
- Integration and Efficiency – Praxis Framework integrates PPM practices which can help when it comes to streamlining project management. The framework also eliminates those aspects that are duplicated or repetitive with the goal of enhancing an organisation’s overall efficiency and effectiveness.
- Stakeholder Satisfaction – It is important for stakeholders to understand all of the benefits associated with PPM, this will help them to understand all of the processes better and can help to lead to the delivery of a successful project.
- Comprehensive Approach – The Praxis Framework includes all of the elements that a project manager may require for successful projects of programs. It removes the need for any translating or mapping between guides.
- Free and Open-Source – Praxis is free to use and is also open-source this means that any organisation can access it without incurring any additional costs.
The Risks Associated with the Praxis Framework
Just as there are benefits associated with the Praxis Framework there are also a number of risks:
- Complexity – Whilst the Praxis Framework offers an approach that is comprehensive, its complexity can often present a challenge to some organisations when it comes to adopting it fully.
- Learning Curve – Any project teams who are looking to transition to Praxis may need additional time in order to learn and then adapt to the framework.
- Customisation – Whilst the Praxis Framework may not perfectly align all of the unique requirements of an organisation, with some customisation this can be achieved.
In summary, the Praxis Framework offers the project manager and their organisation many significant benefits, however they need to make sure that they are assessing their readiness carefully and think about any associated risks before they begin implementation.
Introducing Praxis for the First Time
If you are looking to introduce the Praxis Framework to a team where it has never been used before, it is important to adopt a thoughtful approach in order to ensure that it is adopted successfully. There are a number of steps that you should follow to make this easier to achieve:
Step 1: Create Awareness
Hold an introduction event
It is important to arrange an “event” in order to introduce the Praxis Framework across your organisation. This can be done either face-to-face or online depending on the location of those in the organisation who you may need in attendance. You should use the opportunity to explain to everyone the purpose and the benefits of the framework. You should also take the opportunity to show them how it aligns with the goals of your organisation.
Training Sessions
You should provide training sessions to help upskill all of the members of your project teams in all key areas of the Praxis Framework. The training should include details of all of the essential concepts, processes, and tools that they may come into contact with during their work on a project.
Step 2: Communicate the Value
Highlight Benefits
Whilst you are introducing the concept of the Praxis Framework you should clearly articulate the benefits that can be gained from using Praxis. Emphasise how it can improve project, program, and portfolio management (PPM) practices, which will ultimately lead to better outcomes.
Stakeholder Satisfaction
Explain to your team members how Praxis Framework could help to satisfy stakeholders by ensuring that a project is delivered successfully.
Step 3: Customise for Context
Tailor Examples
You can also share real-world examples of successful projects that utilised Praxis with your team to highlight its value, clearly showing how it addresses specific challenges and thus results in a positive outcome.
Contextualise
Relate a range of Praxis Framework concepts to the existing practices of your project team and show them how this can complement their work rather than replace it.
Step 4: Engage Champions
Identify Advocates
It is a good idea to identify those individuals within the team who are enthusiastic about adopting the new framework. These individuals can be your champions, helping you to promote Praxis across the organisation and addressing any initial resistance.
Champion-Led Sessions
Organise sessions that will be led by these champions and allow them to share their positive experiences with Praxis.
Step 5: Start Small
Pilot Projects
You should begin with a pilot project. Apply the Praxis principles to a manageable project in order to demonstrate its effectiveness.
Learn and Adapt
Use this pilot as a learning opportunity, gather feedback from the team and use this to refine the implementation.
Step 6: Provide Resources
Documentation
Ensure that all of your team members have access to Praxis documentation, guides, and reference materials to help them.
Support Channels
Set up channels (for example forums or dedicated email addresses) for the members of the team so that they can seek clarification or share their experiences with others.
Step 7: Encourage Collaboration
Team Praxis
Utilise the Team Praxis feature within the framework. It makes use of the DISC model of personality to assist team members in viewing project delivery practices from a range of different perspectives. When your team members understand the viewpoints of others this will foster a more effective collaboration.
Shared Learning
Encourage the members of the team to learn together, discuss any challenges that they encounter and also to explore how Praxis might enhance their performance as a team.
Remember when you introduce any new framework you will need to involve change management. Be patient with the members of the team, address their concerns, and celebrate all of the small wins along the way. Over time, Praxis has the potential to become an integral part of your team’s approach, leading to more successful projects.