Introduction:

A sound project management practice keeps any organization stays ahead in the competition. It is understood that most of the companies take up and implement multiple projects at a time based on their business needs and market trends. These projects are executed as individual projects headed by the project managers. They can also be grouped under a few programs assigned to a program manager. If required all projects or programs are undertaken as a single portfolio based on the type of projects planned.

Here, an attempt is been made to draw a line between the programs and projects along with the key responsibilities managed by the project managers and the program manager giving a brief on the roles they play in the respective assignment.

Program Management:

A program is defined as a group of related projects, subsidiary programs, and program activities. They are operated in a coordinated way to gain benefits not obtainable from operating them independently.

Program management is the process of managing several related projects, often with the intention of improving an organization's performance and meet the market competition. A program irrespective of the domain, structure or outcome shall comprise of several projects. Hence certain project management roles will also be part of program management.

According to PMBOK 6th edition, program management focuses on interdependencies within projects and between projects and the program level. It is to determine the optimal approach for managing them.

Actions related to but not limited to program management may include:

• Allocating program scope into program components

• Managing interdependencies among the program components

• Managing program risks that may impact the multiple projects under the program

• Allocating the program budget to all the projects

• Measuring and ensuring the planned benefit of the program

Project Management March 01,2020