Blended Gateway reviews Programs do not always fit into the Gateway structure for projects (Gate 0 to 5) because they can represent a series of interrelated projects with a common objective, or a broad framework or policy concept that may result in a series of largely independent smaller projects (potentially all at different stages of implementation). The review approach helps to reduce the review burden on entities while ‘blended’ simultaneously providing program strategic alignment and project milestone delivery assurance. Identifying the critical factors in a multi-project program, including the issues that need to be addressed to realise benefits, is an important component of the blended review approach. Program reviews will assess the significance of any project to the overall success of the program, and where the single project could benefit from a focussed review, the overall program review will accommodate a combined focus of program and project review. E.g., blend Gate 1 with a First Stage Review or blend Gate 4 with a Mid Stage Review. Combined Gateway reviews Combined Gateway reviews (i.e. combined Gate 0 and 1) may be conducted when a project has reached the point in its lifecycle where the issues relevant to the subsequent Gateway milestone are pertinent at that point in time. Phased Gateway reviews Phased Gateway reviews can be conducted, e.g. a Gate 2a followed by a Gate 2b, the entity, ARU and/or the RTL considers that this approach would add value and be appropriate for the project. A phased approach would work well, e.g., where there are discrete phase that ‘releases’ would benefit from targeted assurance. This is often the case for large ICT projects and projects applying an Agile methodology. A phased approach may also be applied where the SRO requires independent assurance before committing to a course of action prior to the timing of the next scheduled review. Intermediate assessments A significant lag can sometimes occur between Gateway reviews. This is most obvious in complex ICT and construction projects during the critical stages of – ‘build’ implementation (between Gate 3 and Gate 4). Intermediate assessments are based on the principles existing in the Gate 0 Business – need review, and provide entities with interim assurance focussed on strategic alignment, the strength of the business case, and effort to optimise benefits to government. Additionally, intermediate assessments can assist to highlight key risks and reconfirm stakeholder commitment.
Blended Gateway reviews Programs do not always fit into the Gateway structure for projects (Gate 0 to 5) because they can represent a series of interrelated projects with a common objective, or a broad framework or policy concept that may result in a series of largely independent smaller projects (potentially all at different stages of implementation). The ‘blended’ review approach helps to reduce the review burden on entities while simultaneously providing program strategic alignment and project milestone delivery assurance. Identifying the critical factors in a multi-project program, including the issues that need to be addressed to realise benefits, is an important component of the blended review approach. Program reviews will assess the significance of any project to the overall success of the program, and where the single project could benefit from a focussed review, the overall program review will accommodate a combined focus of program and project review. E.g., blend Gate 1 with a First Stage Review or blend Gate 4 with a Mid Stage Review. Combined Gateway reviews Combined Gateway reviews (i.e. combined Gate 0 and 1) may be conducted when a project has reached the point in its lifecycle where the issues relevant to the subsequent Gateway milestone are pertinent at that point in time. Phased Gateway reviews Phased Gateway reviews can be conducted, e.g. a Gate 2a followed by a Gate 2b, the entity, ARU and/or the RTL considers that this approach would add value and be appropriate for the project. A phased approach would work well, e.g., where there are discrete phase ‘releases’ that would benefit from targeted assurance. This is often the case for large ICT projects and projects applying an Agile methodology. A phased approach may also be applied where the SRO requires independent assurance before committing to a course of action prior to the timing of the next scheduled review. Intermediate assessments A significant lag can sometimes occur between Gateway reviews. This is most obvious in complex ICT and construction projects – during the critical ‘build’ stages of implementation (between Gate 3 and Gate 4). Intermediate assessments are based on the principles existing in the Gate 0 – Business need review, and provide entities with interim assurance focussed on strategic alignment, the strength of the business case, and effort to optimise benefits to government. Additionally, intermediate assessments can assist to highlight key risks and reconfirm stakeholder commitment.
RMG-106R.docx