Introduction
Introduction
What is a Project?
A project is a set of planned activities that start and end at
specific times. It is done to reach a goal while following certain
rules like time, cost, and available resources.
According to the Project Management Institute (PMI), a
project is a temporary effort with a clear beginning and end.
Projects can be simple and handled by one person, or complex
and managed by many people.
To complete a specific,
Purpose To maintain ongoing operations
temporary task or goal
outcomes
Management
Flexible, goal-driven Stable, process-oriented
Style
Project Manager:
A project manager is responsible for leading a project from start
to finish. They plan, manage resources, and ensure the project
meets its goals. They have the authority to make decisions and
are accountable for the project's success. Their role ends when
the project is complete or at a set stage.
How Projects and Program differ?
What is a Program?
A program is a group of related projects managed together as
one. A program manager oversees all the projects to make sure
the overall goals are met. They focus on the big picture, while
project managers focus on delivering their specific projects on
time and within budget.
Structure:
Projects have clear, specific goals and well-defined scope.
Programs are more flexible and cover multiple projects with
less clear boundaries.
Program teams are larger, as they include all the project
managers and their teams.
Effort:
A project is a single task with a clear focus.
A program is a collection of related projects that work
together to achieve a common goal. The program
manager ensures the projects run smoothly, especially
when they overlap.
Length:
Projects are usually completed in a short time, but some
can take several years.
Programs often take a long time to finish because they
involve multiple projects. They are often split into phases.
Benefits:
Projects focus on tangible results (what is produced when
the project is completed).
Programs focus on overall outcomes, which are often less
tangible. The benefits come from the combined results of all
the projects. For example, a program might lead to cultural
or organizational changes.