International Project Management Association (IPMA) Practice Exam

Program managers typically manage by concentrating on:

1. Selected critical elements of the projects in their program

2. The detailed work-items of the projects in their program

3. The management styles of the project managers who report to them

4. The activities of the program management office

The correct answer is: Selected critical elements of the projects in their program

Program managers typically manage by concentrating on selected critical elements of the projects within their program. This approach allows them to oversee the program's strategic alignment and ensure that the projects collectively meet the organization's goals and objectives. By emphasizing critical elements, program managers can effectively allocate resources, assess risks, and monitor progress across various projects while maintaining a high-level perspective. This focus is essential for achieving synergy among projects and ensuring that they deliver value to stakeholders. In contrast, concentrating on detailed work items would lead to a micro-management style, which is not aligned with the program manager's broader responsibilities. Managing the styles of project managers, while important, is a more indirect aspect of their role and not the primary focus of program management. Lastly, while overseeing the activities of the program management office is part of their responsibilities, the core task lies in guiding the project's critical elements to achieve successful outcomes.