Project v programme
A project is a series of related a tasks which when they are carried in the correct order will lead to the completion of the project. Because they complete, projects are discreet and temporary, generally resulting in the creation of a tangible product or outcome. Developing a new building is generally considered to be a project as it consists of a series of stages that are undertaken in sequence and create a building after which the project is complete.
Projects will tend to run independently of the businesses involved in them and follow their own schedule.
A programme is a series of interrelated projects that may be carried out repeatedly or continuously in order to support an ongoing process. The outcome of a programme may be intangible and the projects may change over time as the programme evolves. The process of business improvement may be considered to be a programme, as it is continuous, changing, and the outcomes may be difficult to define.
Programmes will tend to be integral to the businesses carrying them out and will generally run in line with the business calendar.
NB Portfolios are groups of projects that need not be related, but which have been packaged together to manage their development and delivery, typically so that resources can be utlised more effectively.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
We're expanding our collaborative mission by launching DB Intelligence, an exclusive market research advisory panel. Built environment professionals can now get paid to share their expertise on industry trends, products and services.
Panel members receive direct financial incentives for participating in research projects like short surveys, 1-2-1 interviews and focus groups. Register today to shape the future of the construction sector.
Planning condition discharge in England and Wales
A brief exoplanation from a building compliance expert, with further links.
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
Guidance for dealing with element of building fabric control that have increasing importance.
Shading for housing, a design guide
From the Good Homes Alliance and British Blind and Shutter Association.
UK Standard Skills Classification (SSC)
A shared framework for describing skills needs.
Social media ban consultation comes to close
CIOB urges UK Government to consider social media’s role in careers guidance in ban debate.
The latest of eight Skills England apprenticeship units
The addition of battery manufacturing welcomed by ECA with a warning about the risks of fast-tracked apprenticeship units.
Building Control Independent Panel final report
A precis of a key report led by Dame Hackitt with full recommendations and link to the government response.
Building Safety recap April, 2026
A short and longer run-through of the month, with links to further information and sources.
CIAT May 2026 briefing.
From medieval scribes to modern word art.
ECA welcomes crackdown on late payment and push for clean energy, whilst CIOB seek fixed cladding removal timeframes.
Cyber Security in the Built Environment
Protecting projects, data, and digital assets: A CIOB Academy TIS.
Managing competence in the built environment
ITFG publishes new industry guide on how to meet the ICC principles.
The UK's campaign to reduce noise pollution: Mythbusting, articles and topic guides.