Program (Programme) Management Definition(s)

If you ask 9 different people, "what is a PMO" you will get at least 10 different answers. However, the definition of program (or programme) management seems to be much more straightforward.

"Programme management involves pulling together a number of different projects into a single initiative reflecting a broad business goal. Launching a new product, for example, may involve a research and development effort, a training project for sales staff and a marketing communications campaign, all of which may be separate projects with a common goal (a programme)."

This definition is quite close to the Project Management Institute's version but PMI adds an important clarification. There should be benefits to managing the projects together under a program that would not be gained by managing the projects separately.

This article explains at least one version of what a PMO could be, and more about Programme Management, however you spell it...

PMO: What is it and do you need one? - silicon.com