What is Program Management? Learn the Frameworks & Models!

Summary

The video discusses program management, explaining that it involves overseeing interrelated projects to gain benefits unattainable when managing them individually. A program management framework called 'get a big soda pop' is introduced, covering governance, alignment, benefits, stakeholders, and program life cycle management. The program life cycle of definition, development, and closure is elaborated on. Successful program leadership is said to require strategic thinking, stakeholder engagement through communication, and steadfast determination. Additional tips and references for learning program management are provided.

Takeaways

• 😀 A program is a group of related projects managed in a coordinated way to obtain benefits.
• 📝 Governance, alignment, benefits, stakeholders, and program life cycle management are key aspects of program management.
• 🌟 Successful program management requires leadership, strategy, and communication skills.
• 🎯 Programs align to organizational goals and stakeholder needs.
• 🔍 Identifying, measuring and tracking program benefits is crucial.
• 👥 Actively engaging stakeholders is vital for program success.
• 📅 The program life cycle has three main phases: definition, development, and closure.
• 🧠 The 'get a big soda pop' and 'dummies don't communicate' mnemonics help remember key concepts.
• 📚 Continuous learning and referencing standards like PMI's program management guide is important.
• 💡Taking a holistic, iterative view of programs is key to understanding program management.

Q & A

What are some key aspects of program governance?

Key aspects of program governance include establishing effective decision making processes, policies, and controls across the projects within a program.

What does program strategy alignment refer to?

Program strategy alignment refers to aligning the program's goals and objectives with the organization's overall strategic business objectives and stakeholder needs.

What does program benefits management involve?

Program benefits management involves identifying, measuring, tracking, and realizing the expected benefits and value to be generated by the program.

Why is stakeholder engagement important for program managers?

Stakeholder engagement is important to ensure stakeholder interests, needs, expectations, and concerns are addressed throughout the duration of the program.

What are the three phases of the program life cycle?

The three phases of the program life cycle are: Definition, Development, and Closure (DDC).

What happens during the Development phase of a program?

The Development phase includes detailed planning, project execution, stakeholder engagement, communications/reporting, and change management.

What core skills make an effective program manager?

Key skills include strong leadership, strategic thinking, and excellent communication abilities - especially with stakeholders.

How can the 'get a big soda pop' model help with program management?

The 'get a big soda pop' mnemonic helps remember key program management concepts - Governance, Alignment, Benefits, Stakeholders, and Program Life Cycle Management.

Why is program management more complex than project management?

Program management involves oversight of multiple interconnected projects, along with alignment to organizational strategy and managing multiple stakeholders.

What resources are recommended for learning more about program management?

Recommended resources include PMI's Standard for Program Management, the presenter's book Layman's Guide to Program Management, and other books/content on program management.