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Welcome to the Program Management Fundamentals course!

This course focuses on the essential principles, methodologies, and best practices established by the Project Management Institute (PMI®) to navigate the complexities of program management.

Learners should have prior experience in program management and a solid understanding of project management principles. Familiarity with the PMI® framework is recommended.

By the end of this course,

- Analyze the alignment of organizational strategy with program management tasks.

Read more

Welcome to the Program Management Fundamentals course!

This course focuses on the essential principles, methodologies, and best practices established by the Project Management Institute (PMI®) to navigate the complexities of program management.

Learners should have prior experience in program management and a solid understanding of project management principles. Familiarity with the PMI® framework is recommended.

By the end of this course,

- Analyze the alignment of organizational strategy with program management tasks.

- Create a comprehensive understanding of ECO tasks.

- Apply program management principles to a program governance plan.

- Understand the fundamentals of program management.

The course contains engaging videos, quizzes, and assessments, that will enrich your learning experience and ensure a thorough understanding of program management fundamentals.

Enroll now

What's inside

Syllabus

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Develops advanced, professional-level strategies used for project management
Provides a foundation for learners who want to master fundamentals of program management
Delves into the complexities of program management using a structured, framework-based approach
May teach somewhat dated material, and learners should check for more up-to-date information
Prepares and supports learners who are working toward PgMP® certification
Suited for professionals who work in project management and seek to enhance their skills beyond a foundational level

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Reviews summary

Program management essentials & pgmp® prep

According to learners, this course offers a solid foundation in program management, especially valuable for PgMP® certification preparation. Many praise its well-structured content and clear explanations, finding modules on program governance and organizational strategy insightful. However, a recurring theme is the course's limited practical application, with reviewers desiring more real-world scenarios. Additionally, it assumes significant prior PM knowledge, making it more suited for those with existing project management experience rather than absolute beginners.
Better suited for those with existing project management background.
"for 'fundamentals', it assumes quite a bit of prior knowledge, especially about PMI®."
"If you're completely new, you might struggle. For me, with some project management background, it was a quick review but didn't add much new."
"For a 'fundamentals' course, it assumed too much. The explanations were high-level, and I found myself needing to consult external resources frequently."
"I already knew most of this from my project management experience."
Well-organized modules with clear explanations.
"A well-structured course! The content on organizational strategy alignment was very insightful."
"The instructors clearly explain complex topics, and the assessments genuinely test your understanding."
"The course breaks down complex topics into digestible chunks. The quizzes truly test understanding."
"The videos are clear and easy to follow. Highly recommend for aspiring program managers."
Provides a solid theoretical foundation for program management.
"This course offers a solid introduction to program management."
"The course delivers on its promise of fundamentals. It's concise and covers the PgMP® roadmap effectively."
"Provides a solid theoretical foundation in program management, aligning well with PMI."
"It's an alright course for getting a glimpse into program management."
Highly relevant for those pursuing PgMP® certification.
"highly relevant for my PgMP® prep."
"Definitely recommend for anyone targeting PgMP®."
"This course is a must-have for PgMP® aspirants."
"Excellent content, especially for PgMP® certification."
Needs more real-world examples and hands-on scenarios.
"some parts felt a bit too theoretical without enough practical application. I was hoping for more real-world scenarios or templates."
"I felt it could benefit from more in-depth case studies or practical exercises, especially regarding risk management in programs."
"I agree with some others that the course could use more interactive elements beyond just quizzes."
"Not enough practical examples or real-world scenarios."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Program Management Fundamentals with these activities:
Create a Comprehensive Program Management Resource Repository
Consolidate and organize your course materials, notes, and other resources into a structured repository for easy access and future reference.
Show steps
  • Gather all relevant materials from the course, including lecture notes, assignments, and readings.
  • Organize the materials into a logical structure using folders or a digital notebook.
  • Annotate and highlight important concepts and insights.
Review PMBOK® Guide - 7th Edition
Familiarize yourself with the foundational knowledge and principles of program management as outlined in the PMBOK® Guide.
Show steps
  • Read and understand the key chapters of the PMBOK® Guide, focusing on program management concepts and practices.
  • Identify the main processes, knowledge areas, and tools involved in program management.
Participate in a Program Management Discussion Group
Connect with peers, share experiences, and gain insights by engaging in discussions about program management challenges and best practices.
Show steps
  • Join online forums, LinkedIn groups, or local meetup groups focused on program management.
  • Actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and share knowledge with others.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Create a Program Management Plan
Develop a realistic plan to apply the principles and techniques of program management to a real-world project.
Show steps
  • Identify a suitable project and gather necessary information.
  • Define the project scope, goals, and deliverables.
  • Develop a work breakdown structure.
  • Create a schedule and budget.
  • Identify and assess potential risks.
Solve Program Management Case Studies
Test your understanding and decision-making abilities by working through real-world program management case studies and simulations.
Show steps
  • Find case studies or simulations online or through industry publications.
  • Analyze the case study, identify the key issues, and develop a solution plan.
  • Compare your solution to industry best practices or expert analysis.
Practice Program Management with Online Simulations
Engage in interactive simulations to test and refine your program management skills in a realistic environment.
Show steps
  • Explore online platforms such as Coursera, edX, or LinkedIn Learning for program management simulations.
  • Identify simulations that align with the concepts covered in the course.
  • Complete the simulations and analyze your performance.
Contribute to Open Source Program Management Tools
Gain practical experience and enhance your understanding by contributing to open-source software or tools used in program management.
Show steps
  • Identify open-source program management tools on platforms like GitHub or Apache.
  • Review the documentation and codebase to understand the tool's functionality.
  • Contribute improvements, bug fixes, or new features to the project.
Mentor Junior Program Managers
Share your knowledge and experience to help others develop their program management skills and progress in their careers.
Show steps
  • Identify opportunities to mentor junior program managers through professional organizations, mentorship programs, or personal connections.
  • Provide guidance, support, and feedback to help them develop their skills and navigate challenges.

Career center

Learners who complete Program Management Fundamentals will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected 38 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Program Management Fundamentals.
Provides a comprehensive overview of project management principles and best practices, aligned with the Project Management Institute's PMBOK Guide.
Is the foundational standard for program management according to the Project Management Institute (PMI). It provides a comprehensive framework, principles, and performance domains essential for understanding the discipline. It's a crucial reference for anyone starting in program management and is often used as a basis for professional certification.
Managing Successful Programmes (MSP) widely recognized framework for program management. outlines the principles, themes, and processes for managing programs effectively to achieve strategic objectives and realize benefits. It's a valuable resource for understanding a structured approach to program management and is the basis for MSP certification.
This practical guide provides a step-by-step approach to establishing and implementing an effective program governance framework. It includes case studies and examples from real-world organizations.
This foundational text covers project management principles and frameworks, providing a structured approach to planning, executing, and controlling projects.
This handbook offers practical, real-world advice on program management. It covers essential topics such as stakeholder management, risk management, and program performance analysis. It useful reference tool for program managers at all levels and has been used as a textbook in academic institutions.
Focuses specifically on benefits realization management (BRM), a critical aspect of program management that ensures programs deliver tangible value aligned with strategic goals. It provides a framework and guidance for maximizing business value through effective BRM practices. This is valuable for deepening understanding in a key program management area.
This practical guide focuses on the process of benefits realization management. It provides a step-by-step approach to identifying, planning, and realizing benefits from projects and programs. It's a valuable resource for program managers focused on delivering measurable outcomes.
Delves into the strategic aspects of benefits realization, connecting it to portfolios and organizational change management. It provides a practical approach for implementing BRM and is aligned with PMI standards. It's a useful resource for understanding how programs contribute to broader organizational change and value creation.
This guide offers a practical perspective on program management for managers. It covers key aspects of leading and managing programs, emphasizing the role of the program manager in driving change and delivering benefits. It's a good resource for both new and experienced program managers seeking actionable guidance.
This guide provides an overview of effective methods and best practices in program management. It covers various aspects of program lifecycle and governance, offering practical guidance for program managers. It's a useful resource for both learning the ropes and referencing specific techniques.
This concise guide provides a quick overview of the key concepts of program governance. It valuable resource for executives and board members who need a high-level understanding of the topic.
While focused on project management, this book provides valuable insights into strategic alignment and thinking, which are crucial for program managers. It offers practical tools for ensuring initiatives contribute to organizational strategy. It can serve as helpful background reading for understanding the strategic context of programs.
This handbook focuses on project-based management as a driver for strategic change and innovation. It provides insights into how projects and programs can be used to implement strategy and achieve organizational goals. It's relevant for understanding the strategic impact of program management.
Is specifically designed for individuals preparing for the PgMP certification exam. It provides practice questions that help solidify understanding of program management concepts and the PMI standard. While not a comprehensive textbook, it's a valuable tool for assessing knowledge and preparing for professional certification.
Considered a classic in the broader field of project management, this book provides a thorough understanding of project management principles and processes. While not solely focused on programs, its coverage of systems thinking and foundational project management concepts is highly relevant and provides essential prerequisite knowledge for program managers.
Provides a practical guide to identifying and managing stakeholders in projects. It valuable resource for project managers and other professionals who want to improve their stakeholder management skills.
Similar to other exam prep books, this guide is specifically tailored for individuals preparing for the PgMP certification. It helps reinforce understanding of the key knowledge areas and processes in program management as defined by PMI, serving as a valuable study aid.
Offers essays on the human and strategic aspects of managing projects, drawn from the author's experience in software development. It provides valuable insights into leadership, decision-making, and dealing with challenges, which are highly relevant to program management. It's more of a thought-provoking read than a process guide.
This classic book provides a step-by-step guide to developing and implementing a successful performance management system. It valuable resource for executives and managers who want to improve the performance of their organizations.
This classic management book offers timeless principles on effectiveness, decision-making, and focus. While not specific to program management, the concepts are highly applicable to program managers who need to lead teams, make strategic decisions, and ensure their programs deliver intended outcomes. It's valuable for developing leadership skills.
Understanding portfolio management provides essential context for program management, as programs are often components of a larger portfolio. This standard outlines the principles and practices of portfolio management, helping program managers see how their programs fit into the broader organizational strategy and investment decisions.
Covers the fundamental principles and practices of project management. It's a good resource for gaining a basic understanding of project lifecycle, planning, execution, and control, which are foundational elements that scale up to program management. It can be used for building prerequisite knowledge.
Provides a solid introduction to project management, covering fundamental concepts, terms, and techniques. While aimed at beginners in project management, it can serve as a useful starting point for those new to the broader field before delving into the specifics of program management. It's good for establishing prerequisite knowledge.
This insightful book explores the importance of project management in various industries, emphasizing the need for effective planning, execution, and communication.
Provides a practical guide to corporate governance for directors and executives. It covers all aspects of corporate governance, from board composition and structure to risk management and compliance.
Offers a different perspective on productivity in project management, focusing on achieving more by doing less through smart work. While not strictly a program management book, its principles of prioritization and effective work habits are valuable for program managers dealing with complexity and multiple projects.
Provides strategies for managing exam anxiety, including tips on how to relax, how to focus, and how to stay positive.
Provides a comprehensive guide to stakeholder engagement in natural resource management. It valuable resource for natural resource managers and other professionals who want to improve their stakeholder engagement skills.
Provides a comprehensive guide to stakeholder management in information technology. It valuable resource for IT professionals and other professionals who want to improve their stakeholder management skills.

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