30-60-90 Day Plan (Technical Program Manager)

Introduction:

When stepping into a Senior Program Management role in the tech industry, it’s essential to have a structured plan for the first 90 days. This period is critical for establishing yourself as a competent and reliable leader. Drawing from a wealth of experience in technology and telecommunications, here’s a generic 30-60-90 day plan for managers that can be adapted to any tech company.

First 30 Days: Orientation and Relationship Building

The first month is all about orientation and relationship building. This phase is crucial for understanding the company’s culture, processes, and ongoing projects.

Objectives and Metrics:

1. Complete Essential Training: Focus on the company’s specific tools and methodologies. Aim to finish all training modules to get up to speed.
2. Build Internal Networks: Meet with at least 80% of key internal team members and stakeholders. These introductory discussions are the foundation for future collaboration.
3. Understand Ongoing Projects: Attend at least three project meetings to understand their current status and challenges.
4. Initiate Client Meetings: Start building rapport with at least two major clients, understanding their expectations and needs.

Days 31-60: Integration and Strategic Involvement

Now that you’re familiar with the environment, it’s time to start contributing actively.

Objectives and Metrics:

1. Contribute to Projects: Provide actionable suggestions or solutions in at least two ongoing projects.
2. Lead Discussions: Lead or co-lead a technical discussion or engineering design review.
3. Develop Program Plans: Create a comprehensive plan for at least one new project, including detailed timelines and milestones.
4. Report Program Status: Establish a reporting mechanism and deliver the first status report to both customer and executive management.

Days 61-90: Full-Scale Execution and Leadership

The final phase is about taking full ownership of projects and demonstrating leadership capabilities.

Objectives and Metrics:

1. Drive Projects to Milestones: Successfully lead one project to its next major milestone or deliverable, garnering positive feedback.
2. Initiate New Projects: Launch at least one new project, including team assembly and client engagement.
3. Implement Features and Resolve Issues: Show tangible progress in ongoing projects, especially in implementing customer-required features or resolving issues.
4. Provide Comprehensive Reporting: Prepare and deliver a detailed quarterly executive dashboard, reflecting the status and progress of your projects.

30-60-90 Day Plan for Managers:

This 30-60-90 day plan is a flexible blueprint for anyone stepping into a senior program management role in the tech sector. It emphasizes the importance of learning, relationship-building, strategic involvement, and leadership. Regular check-ins with your supervisor and team are key to ensuring you are on track and making necessary adjustments. Remember, success in this role is not just about meeting metrics but also about integrating into the company culture and building lasting professional relationships.