Several of the project managers at your company are described as “program managers.” What does this tell us about these project managers?
- They are contract workers.
- Their role does not involve budget management.
- They are new to the project management role.
- They manage multiple projects.
The term “program managers” implies that these individuals have the responsibility of overseeing and coordinating multiple projects within a larger program. This designation signifies several key aspects:
- Managing Multiple Projects: Program managers are typically assigned the role of supervising a group of interconnected projects that collectively contribute to fulfilling broader organizational objectives. These projects often share resources, objectives, or strategic significance.
- Strategic Focus: Program managers operate at an elevated level within the realm of project management, concentrating on aligning projects with the strategic goals of the organization. They ensure that all projects within the program work harmoniously to attain specific outcomes or advantages.
- Resource Coordination: Due to the involvement of multiple projects, program managers are responsible for coordinating resources, managing interdependencies, and optimizing the allocation of resources across these projects.
- Risk Management: Program managers are also tasked with addressing risks at the program level, addressing issues that could potentially impact the successful execution of multiple projects concurrently.
- Reporting to Leadership: Program managers frequently report to senior management or executives, offering updates on the overall progress and performance of the program.
In conclusion, when project managers are referred to as “program managers,” it signifies their role in overseeing a collection of projects with a strategic emphasis, ensuring resource coordination, managing dependencies, and operating at a higher organizational level to achieve specific program-level objectives.