Program control and management is the process that handles several simultaneous and dependent projects. Program control and management provides a layer above project management which focuses on selecting the best group of programs, where the program constitutes the included projects and provides them with an infrastructure enabling their successful administration, leaving the project manager free to concentrate on the project.
In an organization or company, program management reflects over the significance of coordination and prioritization of input and resources across the projects, departments and units to ensure that the scope of the program is upheld. In Europe the term is normally used for multiple change projects: projects that have been defined to the advantage of the host organization.
The responsibility of program managers can vary. For example, production program management can be very different in terms of responsibility from program management for a pharmaceutical testing and data compilation program.
Disciplines that must be mastered.
Management: Because of the serious consequences of failure, programs require a more robust structure and closer control.
Control: At the lowest level project managers coordinate individual projects. They are supervised by the program manager on the basis of the program plans and who is accountable to the project sponsor, a control group or the board.
Economy: The follow up and financial ratios and costs are important aspects of program management, and in combination with a follow up of more general administrative costs provide a comprehensive picture.
Infrastructure: The allocation of resources affects costs and the likelihood of a successful project. Program management supervises general and project specific resource allocation.
Planning: Each project manager compiles a plan which correlates with the general plan for the program.
Lead leaders - do you?
A program manager does not normally work in the same way as a group or team. While a group or team member handles information concerning personnel, such as salary, benefits and training, or work place complaints, a program manager only deals with the personnel issues that are related to the project that the personnel are involved in. Because the program manager does not have the structural or formal means to reward or penalize he or she must work through using influence, gaining confidence, professionalism and integrity.
Sigma provides consultancy services within the following areas:
• Focus on the knowledge and capacity requirement.
• Refine the leadership being exercised.
• Assess and develop the influences that personality has on the program manager's work.
• Prepare for the certification of program managers.