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IBM

Introduction to Program Management

IBM via Coursera

Overview

Program managers are highly valued professionals who can earn up to $245,870 p.a. (Glassdoor). This course is ideal for anyone interested in starting a career in program management. This includes project managers, product managers, product owners, and scrum masters who want a focused introduction to the role of program manager. Program managers oversee multiple related projects to achieve strategic business objectives. In this course, you'll develop essential program management skills to get you started. You’ll discover how to define programs and investigate the phases of the program management lifecycle, addressing challenges and solutions. You’ll look at program management offices (PMOs) and learn about stakeholder management using tools like RACI charts. Plus, you’ll look at PMI-PgMP certification requirements, consider other certifications, and explore program manager career paths and the essential skills required for success. Throughout this course, you'll get instructional guidance through videos and valuable hands-on practice in online labs to reinforce your learning. Then a final project will enable you to analyze program manager job postings and develop your learning plan to work in this role. Enroll now to kickstart your journey to becoming a prized program manager!

Syllabus

  • Program Manager Profession Overview
    • In this module, you will gain the fundamental knowledge and skills required for successful program management. You will begin by defining programs, their initiation, and their critical role in organizational success. You will gain insights into key program strategy management relationships and the skills and competencies of a program manager. Additionally, you will learn about Program Management Offices (PMOs), their functionalities, and the activities they perform.
  • Program Management Performance Domains, Lifecycle, and Certifications
    • In this module, you will understand stakeholder management by identifying key roles and responsibilities through practical examples like RACI charts. You will understand the program lifecycle, focusing on its three distinct phases and their goals. Additionally, you will learn about the program management lifecycle, emphasizing the initiation, execution, and closure phases and their objectives. You will explore common challenges and effective solutions for each phase. The module will also cover the PMI-PgMP certification, detailing its significance and requirements, along with other relevant certifications and their value.
  • Program Manager Opportunities , Final Assessment, and Course Wrap-up
    • In this module, you will explore career opportunities for program managers. You will learn about different career paths and the skills needed to be successful. You will engage in scenario reviews, a practice quiz, and a guided project to assess skills and apply knowledge. The module concludes with a summary of course highlights and a final project to analyze job listings and develop a personalized skills enhancement plan.

Taught by

Daniel C. Yeomans and IBM Skills Network Team

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