Introduction to Advanced Program Management in Engineering & Operations

•       Defining program management in the context of engineering and operations
•       Key differences between project and program management in technical fields
•       Core skills required for engineering program managers
•       The program management lifecycle for engineering and operations programs

Program Design and Strategic Alignment

•       Aligning engineering programs with strategic business objectives
•       Developing clear program goals, outcomes, and deliverables
•       Structuring programs: Dividing programs into manageable sub-projects
•       Tools for creating a program roadmap and timelines
•       Activity: Analyzing the alignment of program goals with company strategy

Advanced Risk Management in Engineering Programs

•       Identifying and assessing risks in engineering and operations programs
•       Tools for advanced risk analysis: Risk Registers, PESTLE, and SWOT analysis
•       Developing risk mitigation plans for engineering projects
•       Managing external and internal risks (e.g., regulatory, technological, operational)
•       Hands-on workshop: Conducting a risk assessment for an engineering program

Advanced Program Planning Techniques

•       Advanced scheduling tools for engineering and operations programs.
•       Resource leveling and balancing competing demands across multiple projects
•       Integrating Lean and Agile methodologies into program planning
•       Managing program scope and changes to the plan
•       Workshop: Using project management software to create a detailed program plan

Optimizing Program Execution and Performance

•       Leading program execution: Translating the plan into action
•       Using Agile, Lean, and Waterfall methodologies in execution
•       Tracking program performance and ensuring timely delivery
•       Managing quality and continuous improvement in execution
•       Group role-play: Simulating program execution challenges and solutions

Team Leadership and Cross-Functional Collaboration

•       Leading cross-functional teams in engineering and operations
•       Motivating, empowering, and guiding multidisciplinary teams
•       Conflict resolution strategies in engineering projects
•       Effective delegation and decision-making
•       Role-play: Leading a diverse team through a conflict resolution scenario

Budget Management and Cost Control in Engineering Programs

•       Developing a program budget: Cost estimation and resource allocation
•       Managing budgets for complex, multi-project engineering programs
•       Tracking and controlling costs during execution
•       Handling budget overruns and making adjustments
•       Group exercise: Developing and managing a sample program budget

Performance Monitoring and Program Control

•       Setting up KPIs and performance metrics for engineering programs
•       Monitoring and tracking program health with performance dashboards
•       Identifying red flags and corrective actions
•       Reporting program status and performance to stakeholders
•       Hands-on workshop: Creating performance dashboards for an engineering program

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

•       Developing an effective communication strategy for internal and external stakeholders
•       Reporting program progress, risks, and changes to senior leadership and clients
•       Managing stakeholder expectations throughout the program lifecycle
•       Communication tools and techniques for complex programs
•       Role-play: Presenting program updates to senior management

Advanced Program Leadership and Continuous Improvement

•       Leading programs through uncertainty and complexity
•       Developing a culture of continuous improvement in program management