Benefit Realization Phase

Purpose

Introduction

The Benefit Realization Phase begins once the project is formally concluded, all project deliveries are delivered, and administrative responsibility is handed over to line management (DP5). This phase entails implementing strategies to attain the benefits (Desired Objectives) described in the Benefit Realization Plan.

Benefit Realization

Focusing on foreseen benefits is important during all project phases. Sometimes, benefits can be attained during the course of the project but often benefits will not be apparent until after the project is completed and the new solutions have been in place for a while. Planning for Benefit Realization begins during the Concept and Planning Phase (DP1). Successful Benefit Realization is a significant task that usually requires dedicated attention and follow-up over a longer period. The Norwegian Government Agency for Financial Management (DFØ) has created its own DFØ Benefit Realization Guide (Norwegian) (dfo.no) that corresponds to Digdir's Project Wizard.

Typical activities during the Benefit Realization Phase are:

• Training employees to effectively use new tools/procedures (in addition to training done during the project)

• Establish and follow-up changed work processes—practice working with new roles, cooperative relationships, routines, and tools

• Ongoing improvements based on practical experience

The organization's Benefit Realization Lead(s) must ensure that the planned strategies for Benefit Realization are carried out, as well as monitoring whether the foreseen benefits are attained.

The Benefit Realization Phase ends with an evaluation of observed benefits vis-à-vis those outlined in the Benefit Realization Plan and, if necessary, an updated plan for ongoing benefit realization strategies (DP6).

In the event that achieving the expected benefits is not possible—in spite of new or strengthened strategies—an evaluation process tied to choice of concept and foreseen benefits (Concept Phase) compared to actual benefits should be initiated. This can provide useful insight and learning for future projects. DFØ maintains their own evaluation tool (Norwegian), which collects and makes available this type of evaluation for projects carried out for governmental departments and other state entities.

Templates and Tools

• Benefit Realization Plan (word)

Checklist for Decision Point 6

• Have planned evaluations and strategies been carried out?
• Are the expected benefits achieved or are additional measures needed? If so, has a new plan with deadlines and responsibilities been developed?
• Have the results of the organization's change process been evaluated and has relevant experience been sufficiently documented?