Programme Management
What Is Programme Management?
Whilst there is a strong link between projects and programmes it is important to understand the differences in order to correctly define Programme Management.
Programme management is strategic in nature, often deals with 'the unknown', highly cross-functional and integrates individual elements of related projects in order to achieve business value.
A Programme may need to structure a series of projects. These projects may then be managed by project managers and the programme managed by a programme manager. Programme and project management techniques are then used in association.
Some Of The Differences Between Programmes & Projects Include:
Programmes...
- Normally large / complex threads of work
- Have a vision of an end state or outcome . but no clearly defined path to get there
- The path is discovered gradually and projects are often formed to deliver specific outputs
- Usually major strategic level investments
- Example: 'Productivity Improvement Program'
Projects...
- Have a clear start, middle and end
- Deliver specific outputs
- Have a clear path forwards
- Example: New HR management system
There are two prevailing standards for programme management. PM-Partners are an accredited ATO for Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) from the Office of Government Commerce (OGC) and the Standard for Program Management from the Project Management Institute. PM-Partners are well versed in both and have blended the best parts of both for various clients to optimise relevance and results
PM-Partners group Programme Management Services
PM-Partners group offer Education and Consultancy services in Programme Management. We can present to an executive board about how programme management can be used as a powerful tool not just to co-ordinate multiple projects but also to implement corporate strategy. We have helped organisations make their vision a reality by putting in place a full programme management framework along with the skills and tools needed to develop a culture focused on realising genuine, measurable business benefits.
Read an article about the difference between Programme and Portfolio Management
