Directing Technology Programs – Fundamentals of Program Management Course

This course provides knowledge on Program Management as a key component to implementing strategic technology initiatives.  Participants review processes that ensure selected technology programs bring the intended return.  A review and analysis of key metrics is discussed to determine those most appropriate for your organization.

The Program Manager is responsible for ensuring that projects within the technology program provide the intended strategic benefits. This 2 day workshop presents an overview of the key elements of program management that ensure technology programs realize their objectives.

This course is designed for Directors, Program Managers and Senior Project Leaders who are responsible for overseeing a group of related technology projects with specific strategic business purposes.

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

> Implement key program processes to realize strategic business change

> Apply a structured approach to managing technology programs and realizing the associated benefits

> Identify strategic business initiatives as they relate to technology programs

> Recognize the relationship of program management to enterprise Return on Investment (ROI)

> Identify the elements of program management

> Apply structured processes for the monitoring and controlling of projects within the technology program

> Establish meaningful metrics for technology programs

Introduction to Program Management

Distinguish projects, programs and portfolios

Identify the relationship between project management, program management and portfolio management

Clarify the link between programs and strategic enterprise goals

Elements of Program Management

Identify the three primary program management themes

Understand the elements of benefits realization

Determine the importance of effective stakeholder management

Discuss program governance and the policies, procedures, and organizational structure of programs and portfolios

Identify and Define a Program

Identify the activities required to identify and define a program

Plan and scope the program

Apply best practices in designing a program portfolio

Create and use a benefits map

Key Practices in Validating the Strategy and the Benefits

Delivering the Capabilities

Identify triggers for new project launch

Develop and manage a dependency network for projects

Define and manage risks at the program level

Oversee and manage the program progress

Learn to conduct a program review

Realizing the Benefits

Focus attention on the realization of benefits

Identify the three distinct set of activities required for benefits realization

Manage the benefits transition

Measure the benefits and validate the program strategy

Closing the Program

When does a program close?

Satisfying the criteria for closing a program

Conduct program closure and market your success

How program management changes the organization

Understanding of overseeing multiple technology projects related to realizing a strategic change and a basic understanding of project management and strategic planning is required.