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Construction Program Management vs . Project Management . By David Hernandez

Program management in the construction industry is a strategic approach that involves managing a series of related projects . These projects are generally designed to achieve a significant benefit that aligns with the organization ’ s overarching objectives . A program consists of interconnected projects ( i . e ., buildings , bridges , highways , etc .) that share common goals and are often dependent on each other to deliver success on a larger scale .

Construction program managers focus on the coordination and implementation of these projects , managing risks , resources , and timelines across the program . They may also oversee a number of non-physical deliverables , including owner relationship management , safety , and risk management . Their goal is to achieve the benefits and value that individual project management might not realize alone .

Project management , on the other hand , is more narrowly focused . It involves the application of processes , methods , skills , knowledge , and experience to achieve specific project objectives according to the project acceptance criteria within agreed parameters . Project management has a final deliverable that is constrained to a finite timescale and budget .

Unlike program managers , project managers focus on the specifics of the individual project tasks and immediate team management , including planning , executing and closing projects ; managing teams ; and ensuring that the project meets its deadlines , stays within budget , and achieves the goals set out in the project scope . Think of a project manager as the leader of a construction team .

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