Project vs. Program Management
We wear many hats in Learning and Development: consultant, analyst, developer, etc. You may have the opportunity to serve as a project or program manager, so I want to highlight some key differences and give an example of what each looks like.
In a nutshell, projects are a temporary endeavor to create a specific outcome, while programs are ongoing and consist of multiple projects.
Using digital credentialing as an example, a credentialing pilot is a PROJECT. Execution within a limited timeframe is key, and program adoption is the goal.
The ongoing credentialing initiative at an organization is a PROGRAM. After the credentialing pilot and program launch, it needs to be maintained over time. To sustain a credentialing program, you need processes for governance and expansion over time.
A program manager needs to be strategic about gaining company-wide, long-term support. A project manager needs to stay on top of the resources directly related to the success of their specific project, but the scope of their reach is limited compared to a program manager.
Using credentialing as an example again, a credentialing PROJECT manager may be responsible for launching one set of credentials to a specific audience. The credentialing PROGRAM manager needs to procure technology subscriptions, build multiple collections of credentials, and generate revenue.
This article uses the standard terms as defined by the Project Management Institute, but companies may call L&D Project and Program Managers different things depending on their job title naming conventions.
If being a people manager does not appeal to you, look into project or program management. They offer many opportunities for professional growth.
