Recommendation 10

Various factors, both internal and external to a programme, can contribute to the need for a reset.28 We heard how this can include the programme going off track, the need to improve confidence in supplier delivery, or to resolve technical problems and set a realistic schedule.29 Factors can result from deep-rooted issues caused by poor programme planning, the importance of which we have been stressing for some time.30 The IPA told us it is trying to encourage practitioners to set up projects well given they are much harder to fix in-flight. It described how it has a several tools to help with project set-ups, and therefore reduce resets, and that it was working to equip SROs and project directors to have the right skills and knowledge at the start of a programme.31 The SRO for Ajax commented favourably on the IPAs range of products.32