The Program Management Series is an advanced, peer-to-peer learning opportunity for experienced NASA Program Managers, Chief Engineers, senior Project Managers, and senior Project Systems Engineers to share their knowledge and learn from each other in a structured, facilitated environment.
In these six two-hour sessions, which function as virtual seminar discussions, facilitators create a shared learning experience based on the participants’ real-world program challenges and lessons learned. This safe, non-attribution environment provides participants with the opportunity for thoughtful observations and feedback from peers.
Recognizing that there is no single formula or recipe that guarantees success in the real world of NASA programs, program managers attending the sessions are encouraged to discuss with their peers how they approach program management, from documenting lessons learned to sharing best practices, developing action plans, and seeking solutions to common problems. The sessions provide an environment for managers to share best practices while refining their knowledge and skills in meeting NASA program challenges.
Sessions:
PgM 01 – NASA Program Management Fundamentals
The “nuts and bolts” of NASA program management.
The Program Management Series is an advanced, peer-to-peer learning opportunity for experienced NASA Program Managers, Chief Engineers, senior Project Managers, and senior Project Systems Engineers. This session covers NASA program management policy guidance and the differences between Portfolio Management, Program Management and Project Management.
PgM 02 – Effective Program Governance
Establishing well-defined processes and explicit roles, responsibilities, and authorities.
The Program Management Series is an advanced, peer-to-peer learning opportunity for experienced NASA Program Managers, Chief Engineers, senior Project Managers, and senior Project Systems Engineers. This session covers how to establish an effective governance structure with well-defined processes and explicit roles, responsibilities, and authorities; and best practices in program governance.
PgM 03 – Financial Management for Program Managers
Exploring financial metrics that can help monitor program health.
The Program Management Series is an advanced, peer-to-peer learning opportunity for experienced NASA Program Managers, Chief Engineers, senior Project Managers, and senior Project Systems Engineers. This session covers navigating the NASA budget cycle; how budgeting and earned value processes contribute to an integrated understanding of program and project status; identifying NASA financial management experts; and financial management best practices.
PgM 04 – Program Decision Making
Concepts and techniques for resource and budget trades.
The Program Management Series is an advanced, peer-to-peer learning opportunity for experienced NASA Program Managers, Chief Engineers, senior Project Managers, and senior Project Systems Engineers. This session covers formal decision-making techniques for resource allocation; resource and budget trades; mitigating cognitive biases; and distinguishing urgency and importance.
PgM 05 – Navigating Program Politics
Navigating competing interests.
The Program Management Series is an advanced, peer-to-peer learning opportunity for experienced NASA Program Managers, Chief Engineers, senior Project Managers, and senior Project Systems Engineers. This session covers identifying and engaging stakeholders; influencing without authority; and special considerations with international partners, (e.g., ITAR).
PgM 06 – NASA Program Leadership
Leadership skills and attributes that enable success.
The Program Management Series is an advanced, peer-to-peer learning opportunity for experienced NASA Program Managers, Chief Engineers, senior Project Managers, and senior Project Systems Engineers. This session covers the attributes of successful program managers; leadership skills that drive program success; and program leadership best practices.