Dependencies in Planning are a crucial concept within the PRINCE2 7 Foundation framework, particularly when developing comprehensive project plans. Dependencies represent the relationships between activities, products, or events where one element relies on another for its completion or commencement…Dependencies in Planning are a crucial concept within the PRINCE2 7 Foundation framework, particularly when developing comprehensive project plans. Dependencies represent the relationships between activities, products, or events where one element relies on another for its completion or commencement.
In PRINCE2, dependencies are categorized into two main types: internal and external. Internal dependencies exist within the project itself, where one activity or product delivery depends on the completion of another task within the same project scope. For example, testing a software module requires the coding phase to be finished first. External dependencies involve relationships with factors outside the project boundaries, such as deliverables from other projects, third-party suppliers, or organizational decisions that impact project progress.
Understanding dependencies is essential for creating realistic schedules and identifying the critical path through a project. The critical path represents the longest sequence of dependent activities that determines the minimum project duration. Any delay in critical path activities will extend the overall project timeline.
When documenting dependencies, project managers should consider several factors including mandatory dependencies that are inherent to the work being performed, discretionary dependencies based on best practices or preferred sequences, and resource-based dependencies where shared resources create constraints between activities.
Effective dependency management helps teams anticipate potential bottlenecks, allocate resources appropriately, and develop contingency plans. During the planning process, dependencies should be clearly documented and communicated to all stakeholders to ensure everyone understands how their work impacts others.
PRINCE2 emphasizes that dependency identification should occur during product-based planning, where the sequence of creating products naturally reveals the relationships between them. This approach ensures that plans are realistic and achievable, supporting the overall project delivery while maintaining alignment with business objectives and stakeholder expectations.
Dependencies in Planning - PRINCE2 Foundation v7 Complete Guide
Why Dependencies in Planning is Important
Dependencies are fundamental to creating realistic and achievable project plans. Understanding dependencies allows project managers to sequence activities correctly, identify critical paths, and anticipate potential delays. In PRINCE2, recognizing dependencies ensures that work packages are delivered in the right order and that resources are allocated effectively. Poor dependency management can lead to schedule overruns, resource conflicts, and project failure.
What are Dependencies in Planning?
Dependencies in planning refer to the relationships between activities, products, or work packages where one element relies on another being completed, available, or started before it can proceed. PRINCE2 recognizes that projects consist of interconnected activities that must be carefully sequenced to achieve successful delivery.
There are several types of dependencies to consider:
Internal Dependencies - These exist between activities within the project itself. For example, testing cannot begin until development is complete.
External Dependencies - These involve factors outside the project's control, such as waiting for third-party deliveries, regulatory approvals, or outputs from other projects.
Mandatory Dependencies - These are inherent in the nature of the work and cannot be avoided. They are often driven by physical or technical constraints.
Discretionary Dependencies - These are based on best practices or preferences and can potentially be modified if needed.
How Dependencies Work in PRINCE2 Planning
Dependencies are identified and managed through the product-based planning technique in PRINCE2. The process involves:
1. Product Breakdown Structure - Breaking down the final product into component parts helps identify what needs to be created.
2. Product Descriptions - These define quality criteria and help identify what inputs are needed from other products.
3. Product Flow Diagram - This shows the sequence in which products must be developed and explicitly illustrates dependencies between products.
4. Activity and Resource Planning - Once product dependencies are understood, activities can be sequenced, and resources allocated accordingly.
Dependencies affect the critical path of a project - the longest sequence of dependent activities that determines the minimum project duration. Any delay in critical path activities causes project delay.
Managing Dependencies Effectively
Project managers should:
- Document all dependencies clearly in plans - Communicate dependencies to relevant stakeholders - Monitor external dependencies closely as they are harder to control - Build contingency time where dependencies create risk - Update dependency information as the project progresses - Escalate issues with dependencies that threaten stage or project delivery
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Dependencies in Planning
Tip 1: Know the types - Be clear on the difference between internal and external dependencies. Questions often test whether you can identify which type applies in a given scenario.
Tip 2: Link to product-based planning - Remember that the Product Flow Diagram is the primary tool for showing dependencies in PRINCE2. If a question asks about visualizing or documenting dependencies, this is likely the answer.
Tip 3: External dependencies equal higher risk - Questions may present scenarios where external dependencies are present. Recognize that these require more attention and monitoring because the project manager has less control over them.
Tip 4: Consider the planning levels - Dependencies exist at project level, stage level, and team level. Make sure you understand which planning document addresses dependencies at each level.
Tip 5: Watch for critical path references - If a question mentions project duration or schedule impact, think about how dependencies create the critical path.
Tip 6: Read scenarios carefully - Exam questions often describe situations where identifying the correct dependency type or management approach is key. Look for clues about whether activities are within or outside project control.
Tip 7: Remember the Plans practice purpose - The Plans practice facilitates communication and control. Dependencies are part of this because they help everyone understand the sequence and timing of work.