How is a Program Manager different than a Project Manager?

Here are ten different ways that a program manager is different from a project manager.

A Program Manager’s focus is on the delivery of programs, which are much larger and more complex than projects.
A program manager has a strategic focus and understands how program delivery aligns with organization’s strategy.
A program manager knows an organization’s relevant strategic initiatives and associated KPIs.
A program manager defines the program’s benefits and how each of those benefits contributes to the overall strategy by meeting certain KPIs.
A program manager institutes a program management framework that oversees the definition, execution, and monitoring of all constituent projects.
A program manager participates in the formulation of the program’s business case and thus understands and appreciates the value that the program is intended to deliver to the organization.
A program manager defines the constituent projects that together contribute to the delivery of the overall program benefits.
A program manager institutes a strong governance framework that facilitates the monitoring and execution of the program and its benefits.
A program manager constantly monitors and assesses the program and its projects to ensure continued alignment with strategy.
A program manager constantly monitors and assesses the program and its projects to ensure delivery of the program’s overall value to the enterprise.

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