Learning plan

Abstract

This article is about the ‘Learning plan’ - a tool to overcome the challenge of making sound decisions while facing uncertainties. It provides a systematic framework to facilitate a learning process that turns un-knowns into knowns. In principle, a learning plan is a document that can be used by a project team to resolve uncertainties in four different categories: market, technical, resource and organizational uncertainty. For the most critical ones the team develops assumptions for their solution. These are then tested and, if disproved, turn into a new assumption or, if proved, into a fact. A learning plan is essential to successful project management in the light of uncertainty. This is especially the case in new product development where the degree of uncertainty is typically high. In detail, learning from experience is one of the principles that reflect successful programmes and projects An example learning process consists of several learning loops or passes through the learning plan. In each, a set of assumptions get tested until a sufficient level of certainty is reached. Typically, a project team needs about 3-4 learning loops to progress on the project. Each iteration consists of two phases: the testing of critical assumptions and the evaluation. The latter consists of a review of the results where new assumptions and further tests are identified.

Big idea

- Key characteristics of the learning plan - How it relates to project, programme or portfolio management

Application

- Template for the learning plan - The three dimensions of uncertainty - Detailed steps for conducting a learning loop - Learning plan resources and online tools

Limitations

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Annotated bibliography

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