The Department of Utilities Oversight (DOUO) is the regulating body overseeing utility companies in the...

Comprehensive and Detailed 200 to 250 words of Explanation From Exact Extract of project-programme-and-portfolio-management of 5th Edition MSP:

The principle of 'Collaborate across boundaries' in MSP 5th Edition emphasizes that programmes are often cross-functional and involve a diverse range of stakeholders, both internal and external to the organization. This principle acknowledges that the outcomes and benefits of a programme are rarely achieved in isolation. To be successful, a programme must break down silos and engage with the broader ecosystem, which includes partners, suppliers, regulators, and even competitors where appropriate.

In this scenario, UU is proactively engaging with the external regulator (DOUO) and other water companies. This is a direct application of collaborating across boundaries because it seeks to build a collaborative environment to solve a shared industry challenge—ensuring fair competition. Option B is correct because the essence of this principle is about involving the "right stakeholders" to ensure that the environment in which the programme operates is supportive of its goals. By working with the regulator and other companies, UU is ensuring that the policies and solutions developed are practical and inclusive, rather than being imposed externally. This collaboration reduces the risk of future regulatory intervention that could derail the programme's success. While internal collaboration (Option D) is part of the principle, limiting it to internal departments would be an incorrect and narrow interpretation of the MSP framework, which specifically encourages looking outward to the wider context of the programme.