A program in project management is a collection of related projects that are managed as a whole unit. This is often done to achieve benefits not possible by managing the projects separately.
The primary function of a program is to implement end-to-end goal alignment. This ensures that every person, team, or unit is clear on what deliverables are expected of them and thereby super-focused on meeting those objectives.
It is the role of a program manager to align and organize these objectives. This can include setting up a common operating model, establishing communication channels and reporting methods, defining goals and priorities, and optimizing the way teams progress toward their goals.
This is often a daunting task as each project will have its own unique set of priorities and risks. Nevertheless, a coordinated approach is essential if the projects are to be delivered on time and within budget.
In addition, a program is a good way to standardize working practices and reporting lines across multiple projects that may not have those approaches in place. This allows for greater efficiency and better resource management.
A program is also useful as a risk management tool. The end-to-end goal alignment ensures that every person, team, or group is focused on meeting the specified objectives, which helps to minimise risk and minimize the impact of unforeseen events.
The key difference between a program and a project is that a program has wider scope, which is more strategic. These programs are typically long-running and involve many different projects that contribute to the larger strategic initiative.
They are also usually more permanent than projects and can continue through organizational change.
It is also important to note that programs are more complex than projects because they have wider scope, which involves more than just producing a specific set of deliverables. The outcomes of a program are not as tangible as those of a project because the outputs may be more policy-related or cultural in nature.
This is why program managers must balance delivering artifacts, engaging with strategic decisions, managing stakeholders, and mitigating risks across the entire program. This requires a strong focus on strategy and an ability to connect with the right people who can help solve problems and plan for potential issues.
A program is a critical part of any organization’s business process, as it can drive strategic changes and create new capabilities. These changes can be beneficial or harmful to the company’s bottom line.
The program may be required to comply with a legal or regulatory framework. This could include GDPR compliance or a commitment to a cashless economy, for example.
Lastly, it can be a strategic move to expand the reach of an organization or change the nature of operations. This can be achieved by implementing a new software package or opening a new retail branch.
A program is a vital element of any strategic effort and helps to keep the whole business running efficiently. It provides a holistic view of all the work being done, which in turn can highlight bottlenecks and improve the overall productivity of a company.