From methodology to skill: Project-based COOPERATION as an engine for change in healthcare

In spring 2024, Improven guided St Antonius Hospital in the translation of their own methodology Project-based SUMMARY to a practical and applicable training course for project managers. This assignment aimed to strengthen the existing project approach within the hospital with a uniform working method that is both pragmatic and recognisable for professionals who "add to" projects.

Our approach

The methodology Project-based Working Together is based on five clear project phases and combines the structure of a waterfall approach with the flexibility of agile working. Working closely with the hospital, this methodology was translated into a two-day skills training course, supported by a comprehensive toolkit with templates, techniques and practical examples. The training focused on essential skills such as:

Formulating clear objectives, results and scope
Creating a stakeholder analysis
Forming a High Performance Team
Jointly creating milestone planning and risk analysis
Preparing a simple business case
Reporting and progress monitoring

These components were not only covered theoretically, but above all practised practically in interactive sessions tailored to the participants' daily reality.

Sessions with project owners

In parallel to the training for project managers, targeted sessions were organised for project owners and steering committee members. These sessions aimed to strengthen role clarity, ownership and decision-making within projects. These sessions considered, among other things, the stage-gate model, project rhythm (drumbeat), gatekeeper roles and the use of mandatory templates.

"A fun training with practical tools. The Belbin test provides insight into yourself and how you react to people and situations. There is also room within the training to make forays into conversation topics that come up during training, but were not actually planned that way." Jantine

Result

This approach laid a solid foundation for a shared project language within St Antonius Hospital. St Antonius Hospital's Project-Based Working methodology was sharpened on various points. Four groups of project leaders were trained, in addition to two groups with (potential) project owners. The trainings were well received and led to a better grip on projects, better cooperation between roles and increased quality of project results. The methodology is now widely accepted and forms a foundation for future changes within the organisation.