Which activity first occurs during the 'Define' process in the permanent P3O model lifecycle?

The permanent P3O model lifecycle begins with the 'Define' process. This process is composed of two sequential steps: 'Identify' and 'Define'. The initial 'Identify' step focuses on understanding the current organizational context, including its maturity, challenges, and stakeholder perspectives. Activity A, understanding stakeholder views, is a core part of this initial 'Identify' step. The information gathered is then used as an input to the second step, 'Define', where the vision (Activity B) is created. Therefore, understanding the current stakeholder view is the first activity undertaken in the 'Define' process.

B. Creating a vision occurs during the second step ('Define') of the 'Define' process, and it uses the information gathered during the initial 'Identify' step.
C. Determining detailed processes is part of developing the P3O Blueprint, which happens later in the 'Define' process, after the vision has been established.
D. Delivering the P3O capability is the primary purpose of the 'Deliver' process, which follows the completion of the entire 'Define' process.

1. AXELOS. (2013). Portfolio

Programme and Project Offices (P3O). TSO (The Stationery Office).

Section 8.3

Figure 8.1 'The P3O Implementation Lifecycle': This figure clearly shows the 'Define' process is the first stage and is comprised of two steps: 'Identify' followed by 'Define'.

Section 8.4.1 'Step 1: Identify': This section details the first step of the 'Define' process

stating its purpose is to "understand the current organization... and the key stakeholders." This directly supports option A as an initial activity.

Section 8.4.2 'Step 2: Define': This section states

"The purpose of this step is to take the information gathered in the Identify step and use it to create a Vision...". This confirms that creating the vision (Option B) occurs after the activities in the 'Identify' step (Option A).