This article is devoted to the transformation of the regional programs of socioeconomic development application in present Russia. This work presents the results of the research of the programs of socio-economic development approval dynamics, programs’ legal framework and means of short-term support, coordination of programs and strategies application. It shows that programs of socio-economic development are turning to be a tool of great demand among Russian regions. The tendency of increasing the number of complex systems of middle-term and strategic planning in recent years is pointed out. The article gives proof of the presence of program and indicative components in most of the programs used in 1999 – 2008.