Difference between Project and Program

[if0rget]

Hello all,

What is the difference between a project and a program?

Would you consider all the events (from bidding onwards) leading up to olympic games a project or a program (excluding the games)?

The confusion arises from the fact that the management of Sydney Olympics was based on "project" based model while the coming Beijing Olympics are being organized under "program based" model.

What is your understanding of this based on PMBOK?

Thanks in advance for your input.

 

[BNPMike]

There is no black-and-white difference.

A programme is often seen as a set of individual projects that have minimal interdependency. The ideal programme would have a number of projects that simply improve the organisation over a given period. Next in purity is where the projects only have to complete by the same time.

Typically programmes have some degree of interdependence. Equally any project you care to think of will have some streams which are off the critical path until the very end eg the launch party.

The events leading up to Olympic Games will be a programme of programmes of projects.

Don't get too hung up on other people's models. Both programmes and projects emphasise management. The tasks and priorities differ in degree not nature.

The key skill in programme management is to realise streams are disconnected so you don't have to get obsessed with all of them at the same time. Identify and concentrate on the important ones and let the other run with reduced attention.

 

[thedaver]

Hrm, I think I need to disagree if we think beyond the Olympics. I know of several clients who run Programs to manage projects that affect single, large applications.

In the case of something like SAP, you may or may not see interdependencies in projects.

In the case of large application with subprojects servicing multiple constituencies, it is appropriate that the Program exist to serve as coordination for the projects.

Thus I view Programs as a means of "PORTFOLIO" management. The projects within may be anywhere from totally unlinked to inexorably interlinked. However, the value in viewing the program is provided by having a point of focus for strategic consideration of investments, escalations, relative priorities, resource management, etc.

Obviously this method of thinking views Programs' function as very situational.

D.E.R. Management - IT Project Management Consulting

http://www.dermanagement.com/

 

[PDQBach]

PMI to the rescue:

Program: A group of related projects managed in a coordinated way to obtain benefits and control not available from managing them individually. Programs may include elements of related work outside the scope of the discrete projects in the program.

As a refresher ...

Project: A temporary endeavour undertaken to create a unique product, service or result.