By J. LeRoy Ward, PMP, PgMP

In October 2007, the Project Management Institute (PMI®) began offering its first credential that demonstrates skills in the emerging discipline of program management, the Program Management Professional (PgMPSM). I say emerging because, while program management has long been an accepted profession and practice within the U.S. government, particularly the Department of Defense, it has just recently gained more interest and acceptance in commercial applications around the world.

Program management deals with the many complex interde­pendencies between component projects and helps ensure that projects align with an organization’s overall strategy. In other words, program management is really about delivering business results and benefits. The PgMPSMrecognizes that a program manager, while needing skills in project management, needs to also have strong business skills and acumen to be successful.

Earning Your PgMPSM

Before we talk specifics, let me ask you this. Have you ever helped your friend move a piano up a flight of stairs? Have you ever climbed Mt. Everest, wrestled a bear or lifted a Volkswagen Beatle over your head? Now think about doing all these things at the same time and you’ll have an idea of what it takes to actually earn your PgMPSM.

OK, I’m exaggerating. There weren’t any bears involved; however, I can tell you from firsthand experience that PMI® hasn’t made this process easy — nor should they have. From documenting literally thousands of hours of experience to a grueling exam to an assess­ment by 12 of your colleagues, it’s as much a test of endurance as it is experience and intellect.

So, for the benefit of any of you who might be seriously thinking of going after your own PgMPSM— and, judging from all the buzz at this year’s PMI® Global Congress 2007, there are a lot of you — I’ve put together a rundown of everything you’ll need to do, as well as a few tips along the way to help keep your sanity in check.

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