Work Based Projects
All participants in the Public Sector Management Program are required to undertake an individual work based project.
This involves a minimum of 40 hours of focused activity on a question arising from or having a direct practical relevance to the participant’s workplace. The project should not be something that you would be undertaking as part of your normal duties, it should provide personal and professional stretch.
This is an opportunity for sponsoring agencies to give participants a challenging in-house consultancy project to enhance their skills and address a problem or issue in the workplace.
The work based project is an important opportunity for sponsors to see some immediate evidence of the value of their investment in you. It is an important part of the learning and assessment process, but is also designed to apply what you have been learning in a very practical way.
It is a one-off activity, has a beginning and an end, has specific outcomes and has limits on time, money, people and resources. The variables have got to be within your control. Don’t make the project too big or it will become an unmanageable.
Refer to your PSM workbooks, exchange ideas with other participants, talk to previous PSM participants and ask to look at their WBPs, discuss your ideas with your line manager and sponsor.
Project subjects
Project subjects could include:
- a review or evaluation of an existing practice or policy or proposal;
- a feasibility study or pilot for a new program;
- development or implementation of a change of practice or policy;
- development of a strategic or business plan; or
- development or a system, including documentation and user resources.
Work Based Project Reference Library
OCPE has a Work Based Project Reference Library consisting of past participants Work Based Projects. The reference library can assist with ideas on how to structure and present your Work Based Project. Reviewing the library will ensure there is no overlap or duplication of previous projects.
Role of sponsor
It is important to involve your sponsor in the Work Based Project.
A sponsor should:
- discuss possible project ideas with you;
- assist in selecting a suitable WBP;
- sign off on the WBP Proposal; and
- be available throughout the life cycle of the WBP to offer guidance and support.