In contemporary industrial organizations, globalization and technology are increasingly similar products in in this scenario, the operation becomes one of two main mechanisms of differentiation, and planning of production takes on a new strategic role. The objective of this study was to investigate this phenomenon, focusing on organizational routines and people. Based on a qualitative and interpretative approach, the work used the phenomenographic method to understand how the programmers themselves understand competence in their routines. Analysis of the interviews identified three different and distinct concepts. The programming of production as Allocation of resources and materials: as Mediation between different areas; and as Tactical-strategic management of the operation. Also, six dimensions of the phenomenon on were identified that explain and differentiate the concept: Logical reasoning, Technical knowledge, Systemic knowledge, Negotiation strategy, Manifest aspect of the routine and Involvement with the corporate strategy. The findings suggest that the strategic dimension of programming can be seen in the routines to varying degrees. Moreover, by revealing the concept of competence as the mediation between different areas of the company, the study reveals the strategies of negotiation at the heart of the debate on competence in programming and production routines.