What is the difference between a project and a program?

A project is defined as a temporary endeavor undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result, which means it has a clear beginning and end. In contrast, a program consists of a collection of related projects managed in a coordinated manner to obtain benefits and control not available from managing them individually. This distinction highlights that a program has a broader scope and is often ongoing, unlike projects that are time-bound.

By understanding this framework, it becomes apparent that a project serves as an individual component that contributes to the overall objectives of a program. Programs focus on achieving strategic goals by managing multiple projects, each of which may have its own specific objectives aligned with the program's aims. This relationship allows organizations to optimize resources and improve overall outcomes by coordinating efforts across multiple initiatives, achieving efficiencies and synergies that would not be possible if projects were managed in isolation.