How have you used advanced program management techniques?

1 Define the program scope and benefits

One of the first steps in program management is to define the scope and benefits of the program. This means identifying the strategic objectives, the desired outcomes, the key stakeholders, and the high-level requirements of the program. You also need to establish the criteria and methods for measuring and evaluating the benefits of the program. By defining the scope and benefits clearly, you can align your program with the organizational vision and mission, and communicate the value proposition to the stakeholders.

2 Develop a program roadmap and governance

Another essential technique in program management is to develop a program roadmap and governance. A program roadmap is a visual representation of the major milestones, deliverables, dependencies, and risks of the program. It helps you to plan and prioritize the program activities, allocate resources, and track progress. A program governance is a set of roles, responsibilities, policies, and procedures that guide the decision-making and oversight of the program. It helps you to manage the program risks, issues, changes, and quality, and ensure accountability and transparency.

3 Implement a program management office

A program management office (PMO) is a dedicated team or unit that supports the program manager and the project managers in delivering the program. A PMO can provide various services, such as standardizing processes and tools, facilitating communication and collaboration, managing documentation and data, conducting audits and reviews, and providing training and coaching. By implementing a PMO, you can improve the efficiency, consistency, and quality of your program management.

4 Apply agile and hybrid methodologies

Program management is not a one-size-fits-all approach. Depending on the nature, scope, and complexity of your program, you may need to apply different methodologies and frameworks to manage your program. Agile and hybrid methodologies are two of the most popular and effective options for program management. Agile methodology is based on iterative and incremental delivery, customer feedback, and adaptive planning. Hybrid methodology is a combination of agile and traditional methods, such as waterfall or stage-gate. By applying agile and hybrid methodologies, you can increase the flexibility, responsiveness, and innovation of your program management.

5 Use program management software and tools

Program management software and tools are indispensable for managing complex and large-scale programs. They can help you to automate and streamline various aspects of your program management, such as scheduling, budgeting, risk management, reporting, collaboration, and documentation. There are many types of program management software and tools available, such as Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, Wrike, Asana, and Jira. By using program management software and tools, you can enhance the productivity, accuracy, and visibility of your program management.

6 Engage and empower your program team

One of the most important techniques in program management is to engage and empower your program team. Your program team consists of the program manager, the project managers, the project teams, and the PMO. You need to ensure that your program team is motivated, committed, and capable of delivering the program objectives. You can do this by providing clear roles and expectations, fostering a culture of trust and collaboration, offering feedback and recognition, and enabling learning and development. By engaging and empowering your program team, you can boost the performance, morale, and retention of your program management talent.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?