Compliance to a methodology and its associated controls is only relevant if compliance enables, supports or delivers a successful projects. Unfortunately history has shown this not to be the case. Fully compliant project can fail as readily as non-compliance projects (they just might be better documented!) Audit needs to ensure that what is being done on the project is aligned and contributing to its success.

• Documents must not only exist but be used effectively
• Structures need to be working and effective
• Measures of success need to be known, be appropriate and be driving the project
• Accountabilities need to be understood and equipped so that they can deliver the results desired
• The financials need to be up-to-date on both the costs and value sides so the viability of the project is know at all times
• The strategic alignment and contribution of the project needs to be measured (not just claimed) and tracked as business circumstances and the project change

And so on. The key question is “Is this project set up for and focused on success?” This is the question TOP™ is designed to enable you to answer. Your recommendations need to contribute to success, not just compliance.