What is ...
Exploring the concepts of benefits
The terms and concepts associated with benefit led programmes are still undergoing debate and refinement. In general benefits led terminology has tended to grow out of that used in project management. However as the non-reductionist nature of benefits realisation has come to the fore, the team and emergent nature of achieving benefits led results has tended to modify this view over time.
In understanding what benefits led means, and how it can provide real support to programmes with purpose, it is useful to understand this evolution in terminology and approach.
Benefits led
Forming the axis of a programme, project or change programme around the aims and benefits envisaged for the work, rather than the mechanics of project delivery.
The term has come to symbolise a shift away from the rote running of a project, with minor 'monitoring of benefits', towards one in which focus is maintained on the benefits desired.
Benefits Management
The management, over the course of a project, of the intended benefits. Originally this term simplistically implied the passive observation of benefits achieved, maybe with the occasional modification of project plans to avoid missing key objectives.
With a more active, benefit led, approach benefits management widened focus to ensure that all planned activities were traceably related to originating benefits; and that during the implementation phase the planned approach updated and evolved to deliver on those benefits.
Disbenefits
The unintendend consequences of a project or change. Growing from the black and white view of positive and negative effects, the term 'disbenefits' was coined to reflect the realisation that no change was entirely without problems, and that those unintended consequences needed as much management as the intended benefits.
With the understanding that a 'benefit' can also be a 'disbenefit', dependant on viewpoint, the term is tending to incorporate shades of grey and to encapsulate those consequences which appear to be almost entirely negative.
If you have any questions or observations on other terms, please feel free to contact us.