Governance
Official Definition:
The framework of authority and accountability that defines and controls how a project is managed and executed.
Layman’s Definition:
Governance is the structure that keeps the project on track — who makes what decisions, who’s accountable, and what rules are followed.
Examples:
• Government Programme – Oversight Committee: Reviewing spending and risks quarterly.
• University Project – Board Review: Monthly project board meetings reviewing milestones.
• IT – Change Control Board: Approving scope changes and escalations.
When to use:
Use during project set-up and throughout the project lifecycle to define oversight responsibilities, reporting structures, and escalation paths.
What this might look like:
• A project board that reviews and approves key decisions and progress reports.
• A clear structure of roles, responsibilities, and reporting lines.
• Regular reporting cycles, exception escalation procedures, and documented approval processes.