> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.leapchange.io/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Creating programs

> Set up programs to organize related change initiatives

Create programs to group related change initiatives together for better coordination and oversight.

## Creating a new program

1. Navigate to **Programs** in the sidebar
2. Click the **New program** button
3. Fill in the program details:
   * **Name** - Clear, descriptive title for the program
   * **Description** - Overview of program objectives and scope
   * **Status** - Active, On-hold, or Completed
   * **Start date** - When the program begins
   * **Target end date** - Expected completion date
4. Click **Create**

## Program details

### Name and description

Choose a clear name that identifies the program's purpose:

<Tabs>
  <Tab title="Good examples">
    * "Digital Transformation 2026"
    * "HR Systems Modernization"
    * "Supply Chain Optimization"
  </Tab>

  <Tab title="Avoid">
    * "Project 1"
    * "New Initiative"
    * "TBD"
  </Tab>
</Tabs>

The description should explain:

* Strategic objectives
* Key outcomes expected
* High-level scope boundaries

### Dates

Setting start and end dates helps with:

* Timeline visualization
* Progress tracking
* Resource planning
* Reporting periods

<Note>
  Program dates don't constrain project dates. Projects within a program can have their own timelines.
</Note>

## Adding projects to a program

After creating a program, add projects in two ways:

### From the program detail page

1. Open the program
2. Click **Add project**
3. Select from unassigned projects
4. Click **Assign**

### From a project

1. Open a project
2. In project settings, find **Program**
3. Select the parent program
4. Save changes

## Creating projects within a program

You can create new projects directly linked to a program:

1. Open the program detail page
2. Click **Create project**
3. Fill in project details
4. The project is automatically assigned to the program

## Access requirements

<Warning>
  Only organization **admins** can create programs. Regular members can view programs but not create them.
</Warning>

## Next steps

<Card title="Managing programs" icon="cog" href="/programs/managing-programs">
  Learn how to manage projects within programs and track progress
</Card>