Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 26
26
The IPA told us that it is looking to introduce metrics to help it understand...
Conclusion
The IPA told us that it is looking to introduce metrics to help it understand whether it is making a material difference to projects passing through stage gates, and what impact it is having on programmes that are underway.51 The IPA also told us it has in place a “get to green” programme to be clear about the fundamental elements needed for teams to give programmes a green rating at the next stage gate.52 The IPA said it wished to make sure that it is impactful on new programmes joining the GMPP, whilst recognising that improvement will be a slower process for those already on it. We noted, however, that when we last spoke to the IPA in 2016, it told us that a system was in development then to measure the impact it was having on programme performance.53 Restoration and Renewal of the Palace of Westminster
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
3.2 In 2020, the IPA worked across government to ensure that every project that meets the eligibility criteria is included in the GMPP, which has led to an increase in the size of the portfolio. The IPA encourages departments to notify it of prospective major projects as soon as possible in the policy formulation process. In doing so, the IPA has improved its ability to provide the right support and scrutiny of projects and embed deliverability principles early, including through the recently published Principles for Project Success and the Project Initiation Routemap. 3.3 The IPA recently separated its support and assurance functions to ensure evaluations of projects are consistently robust and impartial. From 2021, the GMPP RAG rating system will be simplified from five categories (Red, Red/Amber, Amber/Green, Green) to three (Red, Amber and Green). The focus of IPA assessment will shift from ‘overall delivery confidence’ to the singular question of whether a project is ready to progress through the next HM Treasury Approval Point. The IPA’s support will now be required for advancement, rather than being merely advisory. Projects ranked red will not be permitted to proceed until issues are managed to an acceptable level of risk. Projects ranked amber will proceed with conditions, including a duty to report back at an agreed date. Projects ranked green will proceed without conditions, subject to usual quarterly data returns and monitoring.