Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) Foundation Training Course

Managing Successful Programmes (MSP®) Foundation course is designed to equip you with a robust understanding of the MSP® framework. The MSP® framework is essential for effectively managing and delivering complex programmes.

This course covers the fundamental principles, governance themes, and transformational flow that MSP® uses to ensure programme alignment with strategic objectives, effective risk management, and realisation of benefits.

By learning these core elements, you will gain the skills needed to manage interrelated projects within a programme, ensuring they contribute to the broader business goals.

View more MSP Courses.

Accreditation information

Training ByteSize is proud to be an accredited PeopleCert training provider for the MSP® Foundation qualification.

This means that all our course materials have been evaluated to ensure they meet PeopleCert standards, and we are authorised to administer the MSP® Foundation exam as outlined in our accreditation.

The first module of the MSP® Foundation course includes an introduction to the course and the exam. This will cover what programmes are, why programme management is necessary, common challenges, the programme environment and the three lenses.

This module reviews the seven principles that underpin MSP®. These seven principles are:

Lead with purpose
Collaborate with purpose
Deal with ambiguity
Align with priorities
Deploy diverse skills
Realise measurable benefits
Bring pace and value.

This module starts with a look at programme governance, the programme strategy, programme plans and the ‘Plan-Do-Check-Act’ cycle.

It will then start the review the seven MSP® themes:

Organisation
Design
Justification
Structure
Knowledge
Assurance
Decisions

This session will review MSP®’s design theme which will include a discussion of:

Key documents
Vision statement
Benefits, including: Types of benefits, benefits profile, and benefits map
Risk and risk prioritisation
Target operating model
Current and future state and gap analysis

In this module you will review MSP®’s justification theme which involves a discussion of key documents, the funding approach, the programme brief, and the business case. This module will also discuss investment appraisals, financial contingency, business case validation and financial plans.

Module six considers the structure theme of MSP® and will discuss:

The key documents
Establishing an appropriate pace
Delivery planning
Multimodal delivery
Dependencies
Benefits realisation planning
Resourcing approaches

Continuing with the MSP® themes, this session on the knowledge theme will review knowledge and information, the key documents, key concepts, and information management.

Considering the assurance theme, in this module you will discuss:

The key documents
The three lines of defence
Assurance planning
Success factors
The assurance steps

Module nine looks at the final MSP® theme, decisions. In this module, you will review:

The key documents
Decision points
Issue resolution
Risk management
Risk responses
Data gathering and reporting

The final session of the MSP® Foundation course will review the seven processes that are defined in Managing Successful Programmes. These processes are:

Identify the programme
Design the outcomes
Plan progressive delivery
Deliver the capabilities
Embed the outcomes
Evaluate new information
Close the programme

MSP® course includes

In choosing to study the MSP® Foundation course online with Training ByteSize, you will have six months of online access to the course, including:

10 modules covering the MSP® Foundation syllabus.
Exam practice module
Downloadable documents
Sample questions
The official MSP® Foundation examination.

Course format

You will have six months of access to our comprehensive online MSP® Foundation course, featuring engaging videos, interactive animations, exercises, downloadable resources, and a dedicated exam practice module with sample questions.

The modular format lets you advance at your own speed, revisiting any modules as needed for a deeper level of understanding. After mastering the training materials, you can use the exam practice module to evaluate your knowledge with a range of sample exam questions.

When you feel confident with the training materials, you can schedule your official online exam easily through our online booking form.

All you require is a computer, webcam, and internet connection.

Getting certified in the MSP® Foundation course can benefit a wide range of professionals, especially those involved in managing and delivering programmes and projects within an organisation. Those who would particularly benefit include:

Responsibility: Programme managers overseeing multiple related projects can benefit from a structured framework like MSP® to ensure alignment with organisational goals and effective management of interdependencies.
Skill enhancement: Training enhances their skills in strategic planning, risk management, and benefit realisation.

Transition to programme management: Project managers looking to transition into programme management roles will find MSP® training valuable for understanding the broader scope of programme management.
Broader perspective: It provides them with a broader perspective on managing multiple projects within a programme framework.

Strategic alignment: Senior executives responsible for aligning projects and programmes with business strategy can use MSP® to ensure that all initiatives contribute to strategic objectives.
Informed decision making: It helps them make informed decisions about prioritising and resourcing programmes.

Integration: Portfolio managers, who oversee a collection of projects and programmes, benefit from understanding how MSP® integrates with portfolio management to optimise resource allocation and achieve strategic goals.

Change management: Change managers involved in organisational transformation projects can use MSP® to manage change effectively across multiple projects and ensure that change initiatives are coordinated and aligned.

Requirement management: Business analysts involved in programme-level analysis and requirement management will find MSP® useful in understanding how to align business needs with programme outcomes.

Standardisation: PMO staff responsible for establishing and maintaining project and programme management standards can use MSP® to implement best practices across the organisation.
Support functions: They can better support programme managers and project managers by providing standardised processes and tools.

Advisory roles: Consultants who provide advisory services on programme and project management will benefit from MSP® knowledge to guide their clients in implementing effective programme management practices.

Awareness: Team leaders and members working on projects can benefit from understanding the programme’s overarching framework, enhancing their awareness of how their work fits into the bigger picture.

Comprehensive understanding: Any professional involved in the delivery of programmes, regardless of their specific role, will benefit from a comprehensive understanding of the MSP® framework, improving their effectiveness in contributing to programme success.

The MSP® Foundation exam does not have strict prerequisites, making it accessible to a wide range of individuals.

However, having some experience or knowledge in programme or project management and a basic understanding of management principles and practices can be beneficial.

The MSP® Foundation exam assesses a candidate’s ability to understand and apply the MSP® framework’s principles, governance themes, and transformational flow. It ensures that candidates have a solid foundation in programme management and are prepared to contribute effectively to the successful delivery of programmes.

The foundation exam evaluates:

Understanding the seven principles that guide successful programme management.
Ability to explain how these principles underpin the MSP® framework.

Knowledge of the nine governance themes that ensure effective programme control and alignment with organisational strategy.
Understanding the purpose and key concepts of each theme, including organisational structure, vision, leadership, and stakeholder engagement.

Comprehension of the six processes within the transformational flow and their sequence.
Understanding how these processes interact to guide a programme from inception through to delivery and closure.

Familiarity with the roles and responsibilities of key programme management positions.
Understanding the significance of each role within the MSP® framework.

Knowledge of how to manage a programme throughout its lifecycle, including planning, delivery, and benefit realisation.
Understanding the activities, controls, and deliverables at each stage of the programme lifecycle.

Understanding the principles and practices of managing benefits within a programme.
Knowledge of how to ensure benefits are identified, defined, tracked, and realised.

Comprehension of the approaches to managing risks and issues within the MSP® framework.
Understanding how to implement effective risk management strategies to minimise negative impacts on the programme.

Knowledge of how to identify, analyse, and engage stakeholders.
Understanding the importance of stakeholder communication and involvement for programme success.

After passing the MSP® Foundation exam, the next logical step would be to pursue the MSP® Practitioner course. This advanced level of certification builds on the knowledge gained in the Foundation course and focuses on applying the MSP® framework in real-world scenarios

Taking an MSP® Foundation course provides several benefits for students, particularly those involved in programme and project management. Here are some key advantages:

Framework knowledge: Students gain a solid understanding of the MSP® framework, which provides a structured approach to managing complex programmes.
Best practices: Exposure to best practices in programme management helps students apply proven methods to real-world scenarios.

Certification recognition: MSP® certification is globally recognised and respected, enhancing the students’ credentials and making them more attractive to employers.
Job opportunities: Certified individuals often have better job opportunities and can command higher salaries.

Strategic alignment: Students learn how to align programmes with organisational strategy and objectives, ensuring that programmes deliver real value.
Risk management: The course teaches effective risk management strategies, crucial for the successful delivery of programmes.
Stakeholder engagement: Improved skills in managing and engaging stakeholders, which is essential for programme success.

Real-world scenarios: The course often includes case studies and practical exercises, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.
Project integration: Students learn how to integrate projects within a programme, ensuring that all projects contribute to the overall objectives.

Confidence boost: Gaining new skills and knowledge can help to boost confidence in your abilities to manage complex programmes.
Networking: Courses often provide opportunities to network with other professionals, fostering valuable connections and the exchange of ideas.

Foundation for higher levels: The Foundation course prepares students for more advanced MSP® certifications, such as the MSP® Practitioner, further advancing their knowledge and skills.

Organisations can gain numerous benefits from having employees certified in the MSP® Foundation course. Here are some of the key advantages:

Standardised approach: MSP® provides a consistent and standardised approach to programme management, ensuring that all programmes are managed uniformly.
Best practices: Certified employees apply best practices, leading to more efficient and effective programme delivery.

Alignment with objectives: Employees are trained to align programmes with the organisation’s strategic objectives, ensuring that programmes deliver real business value.
Benefit realisation: Better focus on realising benefits and achieving strategic goals.

Proactive risk management: Certified employees are skilled in identifying, assessing, and managing risks, reducing the likelihood of programme failures.
Issue resolution: Enhanced ability to handle issues promptly and effectively, minimising disruptions.

Resource optimisation: Improved resource management, leading to optimal use of organisational resources.
Reduced duplication: Streamlined processes reduce duplication of efforts and promote better coordination among projects within a programme.

Effective communication: Certified employees are adept at engaging and communicating with stakeholders, leading to better stakeholder satisfaction and support.
Transparency: Enhanced transparency in programme progress and decision-making processes.

Budget management: Better financial management of programmes, helping to keep costs under control.
Efficiency gains: More efficient programme execution can lead to significant cost savings over time.

Market differentiation: Organisations with certified employees can differentiate themselves in the market as having a skilled and competent workforce.
Client confidence: Increased confidence among clients and stakeholders in the organisation’s ability to deliver complex programmes successfully.

Learning culture: Encourages a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the organisation.
Feedback loops: Systematic use of feedback and lessons learned to improve future programmes.

Professional development: Supporting employees in gaining certifications demonstrates a commitment to their professional growth, enhancing job satisfaction and loyalty.
Career advancement: Employees see a clear path for career advancement, reducing turnover.

Preparation for advanced certifications: Employees who complete the Foundation course are well-prepared for more advanced MSP® certifications, further enhancing their skills.
Scalability: The MSP® framework is scalable, supporting the organisation as it grows and faces more complex programme management challenges.

The key learning outcomes from the MSP® Foundation training include:

As experts in delivering project management training through a range of study styles, your success is key to our success. We understand how people learn, we know how to train people to pass exams, we employ the best trainers and specialise in small class sizes to help you get the best from your investment. So, if you’re looking to enhance your project management skills and ensure you pass first time, Training ByteSize is a name you can trust.

As a family run business, project and programme management training is in our blood, and so is innovation. Our founders have been part of the industry since the 1990’s, specifically founding Key Skills and developing the world’s first accredited e-learning course for PRINCE2.

Today we are proud to continue with world firsts; with second generation Victoria at the helm, she had led Training ByteSize to ensure were the first company to develop and deliver e-learning options for accredited courses including Business Analysis Foundation, ITIL4, and AgilePM. When we say we’re experts in project management training, we really do mean it.

Passing the MSP® Foundation exam requires a good understanding of the MSP® framework and thorough preparation. Here are some our top tips at Training ByteSize to help you pass the MSP® Foundation exam:

Understand the exam format

Exam Structure: The exam consists of multiple-choice questions.
Time Management: You will have a limited amount of time to complete the exam, so practice managing your time effectively.

Study materials

Training Course: Enrol in our accredited MSP® Foundation training course to gain structured learning and insights from our experienced trainers.
Practice Exams: Use our practice exam simulator to familiarise yourself with the question format and assess your knowledge.

Key concepts to focus on

Principles: Understand the seven principles and their applications.
Governance Themes: Study the nine governance themes and their role in program management.
Transformational Flow: Learn the six processes within the transformational flow and how they integrate with program management activities.

Study techniques

Study Schedule: Create a study schedule that covers all topics and stick to it.
Regular Revision: Regularly review key concepts, principles, and themes.
Review Mistakes: Analyse your mistakes in practice exams to identify weak areas and focus on improving them.

Exam strategies

Read Questions Carefully: Pay close attention to the wording of questions and answer choices.
Eliminate Wrong Answers: Narrow down your choices by eliminating obviously incorrect answers.
Flag Difficult Questions: If you’re unsure about a question, flag it and return to it later if time permits.

By combining a thorough understanding of the MSP® framework with consistent practice and revision, you can increase your chances of passing the exam. Good luck!

All PeopleCert Business and IT certifications must be renewed within three years of their original certification date.

There are two ways in which you can renew your certification:

You can upgrade to PeopleCert’s Plus Plan membership to gain access to the Continuous Professional Development (CPD) program, which allows you to maintain your certifications by logging CPD points for daily professional activities.
Alternatively, you can keep your certifications current by attending another course and passing an exam within the same Product Suite before your certification’s renewal date.

The MSP® Foundation qualification is considered an entry-level certification within the MSP® framework. It is designed to provide a foundational understanding of the principles, governance themes, and transformational flow processes of the MSP® methodology.

16/2 Waterfront Place
Robina
QLD, 4226

Training teams is what we do really well, so if you have more than one person to train it may be more cost effective for you to consider our corporate solutions. Courses are offered online, on-site or virtually; there are so many options so it’s best for you to email us at learning@trainingbytesize.com with your requirements and we will send you a tailored quote.

Online learning is a great way to study and our e-learning courses are interactive and engaging.

Studying for your qualification online is a viable option for so many project managers:

Learning is completely flexible to suits your busy schedule
The interactive online course consists of voice-over and animation to keep you engaged throughout the learning
You can access it anywhere in the world and take your exam online at a time that suits you best
The Foundation e-learning will take around 10 hours to complete and includes a quiz bank which contains a range of questions to test your knowledge and understanding of the course prior to sitting the official exam
Our pass rates are well in excess of the national average (nearly 100%!), there is really no reason you should fail!

Virtual classroom learning with Training ByteSize

Our Virtual Course platform delivers accredited and certified training, led by leading subject matter experts, direct to your home, mobile, computer or office without the hassle of travelling or staying away. It is so easy to fit in an online class into your busy schedule; simply log in from home, the office, or even while you are travelling.

Students can ask questions using a headset, webcam or a chat window, and get their questions answered, just like in a traditional classroom. Questions can be lined up and answered at intervals, without interrupting the teacher’s flow of thought. There is no difference in the level of interaction – in fact distractions are significantly reduced because of this way of teaching. Our trainers have a minimum of 10 years training experience, plus have previously run and managed live projects, so have real-life experience they bring to the virtual session.

Download our virtual classroom course brochure to find out more.

If you would like to find out more about this option please complete this short form and we’ll come right back to you.

Sometimes taking two days out of the office just doesn’t work, especially if you have a large group of people going through training. So we’ve come up with a tried and tested solution which combines the very best distance learning with onsite training, ensuring your company experiences the least impact on general day to day business. Additionally the bespoke blended option offers you a more cost effective way to train you team, so it’s a win-win.

If you would like to find out more about this option please call our team on +64 4831 1525 or complete this short form and we’ll come right back to you.

MSP® Foundation Course 5th Edition

MSP® Foundation Course 5th Edition

Prefer to Pay by Invoice or get a Team Quote?

Group Training

Course Overview

Accreditation information

Frequently Asked Questions

You May Also Like

MSP Foundation and Practitioner Course 5th Edition

P3O® – Portfolio, Programme and Project Offices Foundation and Practitioner Course

Praxis Framework Foundation and Practitioner Course

PRINCE2® 7 Foundation Course

PRINCE2® 7 Practitioner Course

Project Planning and Control Foundation and Practitioner Course

How to find us

Get in touch

Group Training

MSP® Foundation Course 5th Edition

Select Options

What's included?

Tutor support

Take2 Exam Re-sit

Handbooks

MSP® Foundation Course 5th Edition

Request a Quote

Prefer to Pay by Invoice or get a Team Quote?

MSP® Foundation Course 5th Edition

Corporate/Team Training