Key takeaways:
- Program managers and leaders use the PRFAQ Framework to think critically about their programs, articulate the story clearly, and inspire their team to act.
- Program managers write their PRFAQ to use as the strategic basis for their program execution.
- The PRFAQ is the best tool to develop a better vision and strategy for their program, leading to fewer mistakes and team misalignment.
PRFAQs are the perfect instrument for those in charge of creating new or managing existing programs, internal or external facing. These include corporate, nonprofit, and government programs. It also works for employees’ programs (See more on PRFAQ for IT & HR). It works wonders to discover the path to success, debate and discuss the merits and details of the program, and evolve it into a stronger proposal.
Programs are tricky to get it right. They belong to a class of problems known as “complex,” where the relationship between cause and effect is not 100% predictable. That’s because programs, different from software, for example, have humans making choices and many aspects of behavioral science and economics are at play. Programs are challenging to design, test, and scale. They require forethought into their definition since it's painful to walk back.
PRFAQs are a perfect for that use case. It provides the system for multiple minds to be working on the problem and bringing their expertise to the table. A PRFAQ ensures a team is thinking critically and deeply about the direct and indirect consequences of a program, and how it affects other parts of the organization. The framework also creates better ways to articulate the value proposition of programs, so the people involved, including decision makers, understand the reason behind it.
PRFAQs elevate programs from tactical instrument to strategic discussions. It ensures the team establishes a vision, mission, and strategy for the product. The team will be prepared to answer questions and navigate the complex world of launching new or changing existing programs.
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Who’s this for?
Anyone leading programs or leading teams managing programs, including C-level executives, VP of Products, General Managers, Directors of Program, Technical Program Managers, Senior Program Managers, etc.
What makes a PRFAQ great for program managers?
Program Managers will spend less time convincing other parts of the organization of the importance, impact, and cost of programs. They will bring credibility by presenting proposals that are thoroughly examined and well thought out.
Who are the collaborators for the PRFAQ?
It depends the structure of the organization and the type of program. Besides the program managers, they will engage their direct leaders, marketing, sales, business development, customer success, product management, operations, finance, legal and compliance, etc.
Who do they share the PRFAQ?
Everyone on the team who’s going to build, launch, and manage the program reads the PRFAQ. Teams supporting the program should read it as well to understand the context, the strategy behind it, and the desired outcomes.
When is it not appropriate to use a PRFAQ?
PRFAQs are not good to manage existing programs, unless there is a proposal for a material change. PRFAQs are not a substitute for other detailed aspects of building out the program or the roadmap and plan for the program.
