Project Management

“A project is a temporary endeavor intended to solve a problem, seize an opportunity, or respond to a mandate” (Brown & Hyer, 2010, p.2). Some projects can be done individually (e.g., hanging a flat screen TV) others may require a team (e.g., planning a wedding).

Programs describe an effort that includes several subprojects (Brown & Hyer, 2010, p.2). Programs usually span a far greater duration than a project; they are often responsible for delivering results tied to the organizations financial calendar.

Dr. Schwerdtfeger served as Program Manager for a $3 million IDIQ contract to support the Comprehensive Environmental Training and Education Program (CETEP). Task orders included: development of 117 environmental standard operating procedures (ESOPs) for multi-media operational issues, writing the Strategic Assessment of Distance Learning and Learning Management Programs, development of web-based courses for Pollution Prevention and First Responder Operations using Macromedia Flash and AJAX, and functional enhancements to the learning management portal (LMP). The client was pleased how Dr. Schwerdtfeger’s team helped expand the CETEP program from MCB Camp Pendleton to all of Marine Corps Installations West (MCIWest). (Program Management Examples, 2014)

Some project managers may use portfolios to pair projects and programs with their corresponding strategic business objectives. For example, a software development company has identified three strategic business objectives: "Innovate in the industry," "Develop secure software," and "Provide top-notch customer support." The organization sets up portfolios for each of these objectives (Innovation, Security, and Support), and aligns the current projects and programs within these portfolios.

Reference:

Brown, K. A., & Hyer, N. L. (2010). Managing projects: A team-based approach. New

York, NY: McGraw-Hill/Irwin.

Coto consulting, (2014). Program management examples. Retrieved from...