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Build a strong foundation in programme management with our accredited MSP® Foundation Course in New Zealand. Designed for professionals who are new to Managing Successful Programmes (MSP®), this internationally recognised qualification introduces the principles, governance themes and transformational flow used to successfully manage complex programmes and organisational change.

Unlike project management, which focuses on delivering individual projects, MSP® (Managing Successful Programmes) provides a structured framework for coordinating multiple related projects that work together to achieve strategic business objectives and long-term organisational benefits.

Throughout this MSP® Foundation Course, you’ll gain a thorough understanding of the MSP® 5th Edition framework, including programme governance, leadership, stakeholder engagement, benefits management, risk management and programme planning. You’ll learn how successful programmes are structured, controlled and aligned with organisational strategy, giving you the knowledge to contribute confidently to programme delivery.

Training ByteSize New Zealand delivers accredited MSP® Foundation training through flexible online learning, live virtual classrooms and private corporate training. Our experienced trainers combine practical programme management expertise with engaging learning resources to help you prepare confidently for the official PeopleCert MSP® Foundation examination.

Whether you’re moving into programme management, supporting business transformation initiatives or looking to progress your career beyond project management, the MSP® Foundation Course provides an excellent starting point for developing recognised programme management expertise.

Why study MSP® Foundation?

The MSP® Foundation certification provides the essential knowledge needed to understand how successful programmes are managed and governed.

By completing the MSP® Foundation Course in New Zealand, you’ll:

Understand the MSP® 5th Edition framework
Learn how programmes support organisational strategy
Understand programme governance and leadership
Develop knowledge of benefits management
Learn how to manage programme risk and stakeholders
Understand transformational change
Gain an internationally recognised programme management qualification
Prepare for progression to MSP® Practitioner

The qualification is valuable for professionals involved in organisational change, digital transformation, business improvement and strategic programme delivery.

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:

Training ByteSize New Zealand delivers accredited MSP® Foundation training designed to help professionals gain recognised certification while developing practical programme management knowledge.

When you study with us you’ll benefit from:

PeopleCert-accredited MSP® training
Experienced programme management practitioners
Flexible online, virtual and corporate learning options
Official MSP® Foundation examination included with eligible training options
Interactive learning resources
Dedicated tutor support
Excellent learner feedback
Flexible study around work commitments
Private group training for organisations throughout New Zealand

Our goal is not only to help you pass the exam, but to give you the confidence to understand and support successful programme management within your organisation.

The MSP® Foundation course introduces the Managing Successful Programmes (MSP®) framework and teaches the principles, governance themes and programme lifecycle used to deliver successful organisational change. It prepares learners for the official PeopleCert MSP® Foundation examination.

Yes. MSP® is an internationally recognised programme management qualification that is valued by organisations across New Zealand delivering business transformation, digital change and strategic improvement programmes.

No. There are no formal prerequisites for the MSP® Foundation course, making it suitable for professionals who are new to programme management.

Yes. Training ByteSize New Zealand offers online learning, live virtual classroom training and private group training, allowing you to choose the learning option that best suits your schedule.

Our instructor-led MSP® Foundation course is typically delivered over two days. Online learners receive six months’ access to complete the course at their own pace.

Yes. Eligible accredited training options include the official PeopleCert MSP® Foundation examination. Please refer to your chosen learning method for full details.

Most learners progress to the MSP® Practitioner Course, where they learn how to apply and tailor the MSP® framework within real organisational programmes.

The qualification is valuable for roles including:

Programme Manager
Project Manager
PMO Manager
Business Change Manager
Transformation Manager
Portfolio Analyst
Programme Office Manager
Senior Project Manager

It also provides the knowledge required before progressing to MSP® Practitioner.

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.