- Does the Framework apply to all major contracts, in addition to major information resources projects?
The Framework is required for major information resources projects and certain major contracts as described in the CPA Contract Management Guide. Note that a technology procurement project involving a major contract may or may not meet the threshold for a major information resources project. In either scenario, the Framework is required.
- What happened to Quality Assurance (QA) Guidelines?
Use of DIR QA Guidelines, which established DIR model quality assurance guidelines for agencies to develop their own internal quality assurance procedures, was superseded by the legislative intent of House Bill 1789. House Bill 1789, adopted in the 80th Texas Legislature Regular Session (2007), directed DIR to establish by rule guidelines for project management practices. Agencies must manage information resources projects based on project management practices that meet specific criteria as defined in Texas Administrative Code, Chapter 216.
- Does the Framework provide a project management methodology?
The Framework provides guidance to agency heads by presenting fundamental information on delivery of technology projects to help them assess the agency’s ability to manage state investments. The Framework functions in concert with existing governance structures and project management processes established at the agency level. The Framework also provides a toolset for practitioners directly involved in delivery of the project.
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- Are the Framework tools based on industry standards?
The Framework tools, when applicable, are based on standards developed by organizations such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Project Management Institute (PMI), and International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
- What distinguishes Framework Extensions from the Framework?
Framework provides a base set of practices for project delivery. Framework Extensions build on that base set by providing guidance and tools for various types of technology projects and project delivery environments that interpret and extend the base set of practices already found in the Framework.
- Does the Framework specifically address security, e-records, accessibility, privacy, or other compliance/technical considerations that impact delivery of a project?
The Framework provides tools and guidance whose use may be adapted to fit individual project needs. Identification and management of specific requirements in areas of the aforementioned compliance/technical considerations are dealt with on a project-by-project basis. Sound industry practices indicate these requirements must be identified and addressed throughout the project delivery. A future iteration of the Framework will address integration of various compliance/technical considerations with project delivery.
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- Is the Framework currently required for use by agencies?
Refer to the Framework Quick Reference to identify which project deliverables are required. Use of the Framework would help to establish a consistent, statewide method for project selection, control, and evaluation.
- Can the Framework be used as is for all projects?
Various types of technology projects may require different practices, processes, and strategies to successfully deliver the expected business outcomes. The Framework does not focus on specific types of project management processes and life cycles commonly used to deliver technology projects. Instead, the Framework provides tools and guidance that may be adapted to fit individual agency and project needs.
- Can the Framework be used for all projects?
The Framework is intended for use during delivery of major information resources projects as defined in Texas Government Code, Chapter 2054, and certain major contracts (refer to the CPA Contract Management Guide). The Framework can be used for smaller size projects as deemed appropriate by the agency.
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- Can the Framework be used if agency project management practices do not exist?
The Framework promotes use of agency project management practices for delivery of projects, especially for delivery of major information resources projects and technology procurement projects that involve certain major contracts (refer to the CPA Contract Management Guide). The extent and formality of these practices may vary from agency to agency. If these industry practices do not exist to some extent, the agency may find it difficult to effectively assess business outcomes during each of the review gates.
- Is the 10 percent contract cost threshold based on the initial contract amount or an amended contract amount?
The contract cost threshold is based on the initial contract amount.
- What happens if a project does not meet the QAT threshold for a major information resources project after the project has been initiated?
Nothing – required project deliverables must still be used and submitted for the project.
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- What happens if a project meets the QAT threshold for a major information resources project after the project has been initiated?
The agency must amend its Biennial Operating Plan and proceed as described in Submission Requirements.
- What happened to the Communication, Configuration, Performance, and Risk Management Plans?
Separate plans (tools) for communication, configuration, performance, and risk management were eliminated in Framework Version 2.0. Data initially defined and captured in those four tools were included in the Project Plan as a single project management tool.
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