Beginning with the basic elements that differentiate space programs from other management challenges, Space Program Management explains through theory and example of real programs from around the world, the philosophical and technical tools needed to successfully manage large, technically complex space programs both in the government and commercial environment. Chapters address both systems and configuration management, the management of risk, estimation, measurement and control of both funding and the program schedule, and the structure of the aerospace industry worldwide.

This book is in full-color - other editions may be in grayscale (non-color). The hardback version is ISBN 9781680920512 and the paperback version is ISBN 9781680920505. The NASA Space Flight Program and Project Management Handbook (NASA/SP-2014-3705) is the companion document to NPR 7120.5E and represents the accumulation of knowledge NASA gleaned on managing program and projects coming out of NASA's human, robotic, and scientific missions of the last decade. At the end of the historic Shuttle program, the United States entered a new era that includes commercial missions to low-earth orbit as well as new multi-national exploration missions deeper into space. This handbook is a codification of the "corporate knowledge" for existing and future NASA space flight programs and projects. These practices have evolved as a function of NASA's core values on safety, integrity, team work, and excellence, and may also prove a resource for other agencies, the private sector, and academia. The knowledge gained from the victories and defeats of that era, including the checks and balances and initiatives to better control cost and risk, provides a foundation to launch us into an exciting and healthy space program of the future.

The Aerospace Project Management Handbook focuses on space systems, exploring intricacies rarely seen in land-based projects. These range from additional compliance requirements from Earned Value Management requirements and regulations (ESA, NASA, FAA), to criticality and risk factors for systems where repair is impossible. Aerospace project management has become a pathway for success in harsh space environments, as the Handbook demonstrates. With chapters written by experts, this comprehensive book offers a step-by-step approach emphasizing the applied techniques and tools, and is a prime resource for program managers, technical leads, systems engineers, and principle payload leads.

Apollo was known for its engineering triumphs, but its success also came from a disciplined management style. This excellent account of one of the most important personalities in early American human spaceflight history describes for the first time how George E. Mueller, the system manager of the human spaceflight program of the 1960s, applied the SPO methodology and other special considerations such as “all-up”testing, resulting in the success of the Apollo Program. Wernher von Braun and others did not readily accept such testing or Mueller’s approach to system management, but later acknowledged that without them NASA would not have landed astronauts on the Moon by 1969. While Apollo remained Mueller’s priority, from his earliest days at the agency, he promoted a robust post-Apollo Program which resulted in Skylab, the Space Shuttle and the International Space Station. As a result of these efforts, Mueller earned the sobriquet: “the father of the space shuttle.” Following his success at NASA, Mueller returned to industry. Although he did not play a leading role in human spaceflight again, in 2011 the National Air and Space Museum awarded him their lifetime achievement trophy for his contributions. Following the contributions of George E. Mueller, in this unique book Arthur L. Slotkin answers such questions as: exactly how did the methods developed for use in the Air Force ballistic missile programs get modified and used in the Apollo Program? How did George E. Mueller, with the help of others, manage the Apollo Program? How did NASA centers, coming from federal agencies with cultures of their own, adapt to the new structured approach imposed from Washington? George E. Mueller is the ideal central character for this book. He was instrumental in the creation of Apollo extension systems leading to Apollo, the Shuttle, and today’s ISS and thus was a pivotal figure in early American human spaceflight history.

Principal Investigator-Led (PI-led) missions are an important element of NASA's space science enterprise. While several NRC studies have considered aspects of PI-led missions in the course of other studies for NASA, issues facing the PI-led missions in general have not been subject to much analysis in those studies. Nevertheless, these issues are raising increasingly important questions for NASA, and it requested the NRC to explore them as they currently affect PI-led missions. Among the issues NASA asked to have examined were those concerning cost and scheduling, the selection process, relationships among PI-led team members, and opportunities for knowledge transfer to new PIs. This report provides a discussion of the evolution and current status of the PIled mission concept, the ways in which certain practices have affected its performance, and the steps that can carry it successfully into the future. The study was done in collaboration with the National Academy of Public Administration.

McCurdy examines NASA's recent efforts to save money while improving mission frequency and performance.".

Superior program management begins with superior information and strategy Program Management for Improved Business Results, Second Edition is a practical guide to real-world program management, written to align with the rigorous PMI® PgMP® certification standards. The book explains the benchmarks and best practices that help shape a superior program manager, and provides case studies that illustrate the real-world application of management concepts. Written by a team composed of both industry professionals and academics, the book strikes a balance between theory and practice that facilitates understanding and better prepares candidates for the PgMP. Managers at all levels will learn the insights and techniques that are shaping modern management expectations. The Project Management Institute and the Product Development and Management Association both agree that program management is a critical element in the successful integration of business strategy and project management. The certification process is difficult, and few complete it – but demand for competent professionals is high. Program Management for Improved Business Results addresses this disconnect, preparing readers to fill the gaps and help businesses achieve the level of program management integration required by professional organizations. Topics include: Aligning programs with business strategy Program planning, execution, and processes Management metrics and strategic and operational tools Roles, responsibilities, and core competencies The book focuses on both the macro and the micro levels, explaining the successful integration of business strategy with project portfolios as well as the managing of a single program. Case studies present both issue-oriented and comprehensive perspectives, and guidance includes real, actionable steps. For professionals seeking improved program outcomes, Program Management for Improved Business Results is a roadmap to exceptional management skills. (PMI and PgMP are registered marks of the Project Management Institute, Inc.)