Public Works and Government Services Canada
Symbol of the Government of Canada

National Project Management System

The National Project Management System (NPMS) is Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC)'s project management framework for Real Property Projects and IT-Enabled Projects. The NPMS framework defines key principles and provides the directives, roadmaps, deliverables and tools needed to successfully deliver projects on scope, on time and on budget.

NPMS Model

(Due to the size of the image, it may not display properly.)

A larger image of the NPMS model is available on a separate page.

Projects are approved based on strategic business needs and investment plan priorities and then tailored based on size, complexity, risk and intended purpose. This framework can also be applied to any other initiative with characteristics similar to a project.

The NPMS has defined different versions for « Full » and « Lite » projects, depending on a project's complexity and risk. Tailored deliverable templates are available for these versions. There is an additional set of directives to address the needs of clients in other government departments. This framework aligns with Government of Canada policies, regulations and procedures.

The NPMS Web site provides guidance, tools, templates and supporting documents for PWGSC management teams, project teams, consultants and other government clients in the Real Property and Business Projects – IT-Enabled streams. The site outlines how to adapt project management concepts, such as those developed by the Project Management Institute, to the PWGSC way of doing business within a federal government context. The NPMS is not a substitute for training on project management nor is it a database system for storing, tracking and reporting information on specific projects.

The NPMS is useful to members of senior management who need a quick overview of key principles and to service providers and suppliers who need to know what PWGSC and its branches will expect of them.