The Practitioner's Guide to Program Management

Programs are essential to executing corporate strategies; however, their success depends on several critical factors: effective stakeholder engagement, robust program governance, skilled team management, a solid program management infrastructure, and adherence to a well-defined program management lifecycle. When these elements are missing or inconsistently applied, program execution often fails. Knowledge gaps, inconsistencies in how program management is defined across industries, and the absence of a standardized approach are common pitfalls.

Despite the high stakes, comprehensive resources on program management are surprisingly scarce. That’ s where The Practitioner’ s Guide to Program Management, Second Edition, steps in to fill the void. This updated edition of the original classic provides a systematic approach to program management, addressing the critical need for clear definitions and practical guidance. Divided into strategic and tactical parts, the book covers everything from executing corporate strategy through programs to delivering them on time and within budget. With easy-to-follow chapters and helpful visuals, this guide empowers program managers to standardize practices and reduce inconsistencies, ensuring successful outcomes time and time again.

Key Features:
Provides a strategic, well-defined roadmap and framework for program success built upon mature program management practices Breaks down the complexities of program management with detailed, real-world examples Addresses how to navigate the new challenges and opportunities in our post-Covid world, integrating the latest trends to help program managers stay ahead of the curve Describes how organizational structure influences the role of a program manager and introduces the concept of the program management continuum, which outlines the four phases within project- and program-oriented organizational structures Provides an in-depth analysis highlighting the importance of aligning program strategy with organizational strategy and describes the elements that program managers and program sponsors create to ensure it throughout the program lifecycle Discusses the future of program management, including the adoption of agile methodologies, enhancing risk management, growing communication and cultural competence, fostering innovation, and emphasizing sustainability WAV offers Excel and MS Project template files for the business case featured in the book and helpful PowerPoint presentations for the reader— available from the Web Added Value™ Download Resource Center at www.jrosspub.com

Irene Didinsky, PMP, MBA, began her career in finance but quickly discovered a passion for project and program management. Over the years, she has excelled in roles of increasing complexity and responsibility across diverse industries. Irene has successfully managed projects with budgets ranging from $500,000 to $20 million and led global cross-functional teams of up to 50 members. Known for her exceptional problem-solving abilities, she leverages data analytics to identify opportunities, create value, and guide strategic decision-making.