How can you create a culture of benefit realization?

2 Plan and monitor the benefit realization

The second step is to plan and monitor the benefit realization throughout the program lifecycle, and not just at the end. You should establish a benefit realization plan that specifies the benefit owners, the benefit indicators, the baseline and target values, the data sources and methods, the assumptions and risks, and the review and reporting schedule. You should also monitor the benefit realization regularly, using a benefit register or a benefit tracker, to track the progress and performance of the benefit indicators, and to identify any issues or deviations that need corrective actions.

3 Align and integrate the benefit realization

The third step is to align and integrate the benefit realization with the other aspects of program management, such as governance, scope, schedule, budget, quality, risk, change, and stakeholder management. You should ensure that the benefit realization is aligned with the program business case, the program charter, the program roadmap, and the program governance structure. You should also integrate the benefit realization with the program planning, execution, control, and closure processes, and with the project management processes within the program.

4 Enable and support the benefit realization

The fourth step is to enable and support the benefit realization by providing the necessary resources, capabilities, and incentives for the program team and the benefit owners. You should ensure that the program team has the skills, knowledge, and tools to manage the benefit realization effectively, and that they receive adequate training, coaching, and mentoring. You should also ensure that the benefit owners have the authority, accountability, and responsibility to deliver and sustain the benefits, and that they receive appropriate recognition, rewards, and feedback.

5 Evaluate and improve the benefit realization

The fifth step is to evaluate and improve the benefit realization by conducting periodic reviews and audits, and by applying lessons learned and best practices. You should conduct benefit reviews at key milestones or stages of the program, such as initiation, transition, and closure, to assess the achievement and realization of the benefits, and to identify any gaps or opportunities for improvement. You should also conduct benefit audits to verify the validity and reliability of the benefit data and methods, and to ensure compliance with the benefit realization plan and standards.

6 Celebrate and share the benefit realization

The sixth and final step is to celebrate and share the benefit realization by acknowledging the contributions and achievements of the program team and the benefit owners, and by communicating the results and impacts of the program to the stakeholders and the organization. You should celebrate the benefit realization by organizing events, ceremonies, or parties, and by giving awards, certificates, or tokens of appreciation. You should also share the benefit realization by publishing reports, case studies, or testimonials, and by showcasing the success stories and the best practices.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?