Definition and History
PRINCE2 (an acronym for Projects in Controlled Environments) is a de facto process-based method for effective project management. Used extensively by the UK Government, PRINCE2 is also widely recognized and used in the private sector, both in the UK and internationally. The PRINCE2 method is in the public domain and offers non-proprietorial best practice guidance on project management.
PRINCE was established in 1989 by CCTA (the Central Laptop and Telecommunications Company) since renamed the OGC (the Workplace of Authorities Commerce). In June 2010, the Workplace of Authorities Commerce Greatest Observe Administration functioned moved into the Cupboard Workplace. PRINCE2 was initially based mostly on PROMPT, a mission administration technique created by Simpact Programs Ltd in 1975, and adopted by CCTA in 1979 as the usual for use for all Authorities info system initiatives.

When PRINCE2 was launched in 1989, it successfully outmoded PROMPT inside Authorities initiatives. PRINCE stays within the public area, and copyright is retained by the Crown. PRINCE2 was revealed in 1996, having been contributed to by a consortium of some 150 European organizations.