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Program Life Cycle Management

Overview of the program lifecycle.

Introduces the stages of the program lifecycle, from initiation to closure, and discusses key activities and considerations at each phase.
5 minutes 5 Questions

Program Life Cycle Management represents the structured approach to guiding programs from inception to completion. It encompasses several distinct phases that collectively enable organizations to deliver benefits through coordinated projects. The typical program life cycle includes: 1. Program De…

Concepts covered: Program Life Cycle Diagram, Program Definition, Overview of Life Cycle Phases, Closure Phase, Program Closure, Program Life Cycle, Mapping of Processes to Life Cycle, Setup Phase, Construction Phase, Program Life Cycle Attributes, Conceptualization Phase, Program Formulation and Preparation, Implementation Phase, Program Benefits Delivery

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PgMP - Program Life Cycle Management Example Questions

Test your knowledge of Program Life Cycle Management

Question 1

During the construction phase of a complex aerospace program, the program manager discovers that a critical design flaw has gone unnoticed, leading to significant rework and potential schedule delays. The program is already facing budget constraints, and the sponsor is pressuring the team to maintain the original timeline. What should the program manager do to address this issue while managing stakeholder expectations?

Correct Answer: Evaluate the design flaw's implications, strategize a detailed recovery plan involving timeline adjustments and budget reallocations, and maintain open lines of communication with all stakeholders.

The correct answer involves a proactive approach to risk management by assessing the problem's impact, planning accordingly, and keeping stakeholders informed. The first wrong answer minimizes stakeholder involvement, which can lead to trust issues. The second wrong answer assumes a solution can be found without addressing the severity of the flaw or its impact. The third wrong answer suggests using financial resources to solve the issue without considering the need for schedule or scope adjustments, which can be unrealistic in complex projects facing budget constraints.

Question 2

As program manager Lisa wraps up a successful multi-project program that delivered significant business value, what should be her top priority in the closure phase to ensure a comprehensive and effective program closure?

Correct Answer: Conducting a thorough program evaluation to assess the program's overall performance, identify areas for improvement, and document lessons learned for future programs.

While initiating benchmarking processes, organizing workshops for future strategic objectives, and updating the risk management plan are valuable activities, conducting a thorough program evaluation is the top priority in the closure phase. It directly assesses performance, identifies areas for improvement, and documents lessons learned, which are crucial for ensuring comprehensive and effective program closure. The other options, although related to program management and improvement, do not directly address the immediate needs of the program closure phase for a comprehensive evaluation and documentation process.

Question 3

Program manager Alex has successfully completed a complex program that involved multiple projects, stakeholders, and dependencies. The program has achieved its objectives, delivered the intended benefits, and received positive feedback from key stakeholders. As Alex enters the closure phase, he wants to ensure a smooth transition and capture valuable insights for future programs. Which of the following actions should Alex prioritize to effectively close the program?

Correct Answer: Conduct a comprehensive program review to assess the program's performance, identify lessons learned, and document best practices for future reference.

Conducting a comprehensive program review is the most effective action for Alex to prioritize during the program closure phase. This review allows Alex to assess the program's overall performance, identify valuable lessons learned, and document best practices that can be applied to future programs. By capturing these insights, Alex ensures that the organization can benefit from the knowledge gained throughout the program's lifecycle. While scheduling meetings with project managers to gather feedback and organizing a celebratory event are valuable actions, they are not as critical as conducting a thorough program review. Completing administrative tasks is important for a clean and efficient closure, but it does not capture the strategic insights needed for future program success.

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