Program Management
A "program" is a long-term activity undertaken to help fulfill an organization's mission or charter. Programs are typically multi-dimensional in nature and are most often comprised of more than one project. Program management is the application of management tools, techniques, and practices to the accomplishment of a specific mission. This may be the development of a software system, or the reorganization of an operating organization. Effective program management is essential to successful program implementation. The quality, as well as the quantity of resources, is elements of resource adequacy. To insure successful program implementation, the Program Manager (PM) must secure adequate training support, hardware, software, data, and monetary resources that are required for meeting the program plans.

We approach each development project with the belief that the key to its success lies in our ability to efficiently manage the limited, development resources at hand. A thorough understanding of the management development process has allowed us to be successful in over thirty countries on three continents. Each development project is monitored and evaluated for effectiveness. Projects are reviewed and improved on an on-going basis. Strategic and contingency planning issues are addressed throughout the life of the project. The work of The Mitchell Group accomplishes positive and lasting change through the efficient management of resources in development projects worldwide.

Program Oversight
Program oversight and control are best applied to any project or program in several ways. These are:

• Reports
• Reviews
• Observations

The PM must prepare reports to record the status of the project to various levels of users, stakeholders and management. These reports are derived from reports received for individuals working on the project. Reports are developed to document all three of the critical elements of a project - specifications, time, and resources.

Reviews established to locate problems within the project provide input into the decision-making process and control process that allows the PM to correct issues. Reviews can be scheduled at regular intervals throughout the life of a project, or at the completion of significant milestones.

First-hand observation is often the best way for providing oversight on a project. To this end, The Mitchell Group's PM personally observes the accomplishments or progress that is made. Discussions with personnel who are accomplishing the required functions often provide a new insight into the actual progress being made.

Program oversight helps in measuring the progress made, and provides input data for controlling the process, as well as correcting any deviations from the project plan.

The Mitchell Group manages projects and provides technical experts to identify and solve problems in the following core areas:

Financial Management

• Logistics and Procurement
• Management of Information Systems
• Performance Monitoring and Project Evaluation
• Policy Reform
• Private Sector Development
• Program Management, Design and Implementation
• Strategic and Contingency Planning

Project Management
A "project" is a complex effort made up of interrelated tasks including well-defined objectives, requirements, schedule, and budget. Under ISO 9000 standards, project management is one of the primary processes that must be implemented. Project management is the process of scoping, planning, staffing, organizing, directing, and controlling the development of an acceptable system at a minimum cost within a specified time frame. Project management is also the management of personnel. It involves obtaining the people to accomplish project requirements in and effective and efficient manner, as defined by the project plan. This is accomplished by following a project management life cycle that is normally defined with five steps.

These steps are:

• Defining
• Planning
• Executing
• Controlling
• Closing

Significant advancements have been made in the process of management of complex programs and projects. These advancements have resulted in improved program planning, control and execution. As effective management of government programs and projects has never been more important, it is crucial that the Federal government take full advantage of these advancements because government restructuring requires project managers to deliver complex products and services on tight timelines within constrained budgetary and personnel resources. The PM must lead the people in accomplishing the requirements, but also must plan and control the execution of the project. Successful project management is not only meeting the objectives of the requirement, but also effectively utilizing the personnel and resources allotted to accomplish the functions.

How Project Management Services Support MOBIS
How Project Management Services Support MOBIS Project management is essential to the success of any endeavor. Without effective project management, the projects will never meet the stated goals. Project management will keep the projects on track, insuring that the objectives are met, while staying within the required budgets and time schedules. The Mitchell Group will bring the personnel, tools, techniques and processes necessary to insure that all of the projects are successfully completed. These tools and techniques have been proven over many projects, and our staff has extensive experience in managing projects of all sizes. Project management efforts under MOBIS will involve efforts to carry out an organizational mission or responsibility in a more effective and efficient way.

Consulting Services Facilitation Services Survey Services Privatization Support Program Management