ABSTRACT
While the mechanics of program management are crucial, the art of leadership is vital to achieving success for programs. Leadership is the ability to motivate team members to, for a period of time, set aside their own personal motivators, agendas, and drivers, and instead work toward a common goal that is established by the program manager. It is through leadership that teams come together and strive for success even when it is difficult to come by. Leaders do not force, drive, or dominate teams; rather, they communicate, empower, and challenge teams in such a way that the team members willingly contribute their time and effort to the goals of the program. Program managers begin with establishing a clear and consistent vision that can be used with both teams and stakeholders that identifies the benefits to the program and why each component is necessary to achieve the overall success. Program visions are clarified and repeated often enough that every team member will be able to repeat the vision, embrace and support it, and understand how its achievement will improve the organization and help meet its long-term goals.
