Prominence was engaged by a major Defence sustainment enterprise to provide an independent review of performance management and delivery processes for a complex naval capability. The engagement aimed to strengthen confidence in reporting and governance while ensuring that the underlying processes reflected operational realities for both Defence and its industry partner.
Working with Defence stakeholders, operational representatives and the prime contractor, our team mapped how program performance information was generated, tested and used across the sustainment ecosystem. This included observing planning and review forums, examining schedule and cost data flows, and understanding the practical constraints faced by engineering, commercial and delivery teams. Engagement across shore-based and fleet environments enabled the team to capture perspectives from those directly involved in maintaining and operating the capability.
The review focused not only on technical aspects of performance and assurance, but also on governance, roles and behaviours that shape how information is interpreted and acted on. Our work highlighted strengths in existing practices while identifying opportunities to clarify accountabilities, improve integration between Defence and industry stakeholders, and streamline how performance insights are escalated and addressed.
The work provided a balanced, evidence-based view of the current approach, along with practical recommendations to enhance assurance, strengthen decision‑making and better align performance management with operational and sustainment realities. It also reinforced the importance of connecting formal frameworks with day‑to‑day practice across Defence and industry.
