Optimization of Portfolio Management How to prioritize work within different departments and portfolios
Typ
Examensarbete för masterexamen
Master's Thesis
Master's Thesis
Program
Quality and operations management (MPQOM), MSc
Product development (MPPDE), MSc
Product development (MPPDE), MSc
Publicerad
2024
Författare
Nilsson, Sofia
Palm, Emilia
Modellbyggare
Tidskriftstitel
ISSN
Volymtitel
Utgivare
Sammanfattning
In recent years, many prominent manufacturing companies have adopted Agile development
methods to respond swiftly to market dynamics and customer demands.
This adoption has led to the integration of Agile practices into traditional Stage-
Gate processes, resulting in what is termed as a hybrid approach. However, implementing
such hybrid models poses challenges, especially in the realm of Portfolio
Management. This thesis delves into the Portfolio Management practices within a
manufacturing company operating in the automotive industry, specifically focusing
on the function Vehicle Technology. The product development within Vehicle Technology
develops embedded vehicle system solutions and services based upon both
in-house and sourced software and hardware components, such as electronic control
units and sensors. Through a case study approach, the research aims to explore
the challenges and opportunities associated with Portfolio Management in a hybrid
Agile-Stage-Gate environment. The study investigates how the Case Company
prioritizes epics within its portfolios, identifies primary challenges in utilizing prioritization
lists, and proposes recommendations to enhance the effective utilization of
such lists.
Drawing on insights from interviews with key stakeholders, the research identifies
three primary challenges: inadequate implementation of Agile methodologies, lack
of standardized estimation processes, and inefficient utilization of prioritization lists.
Implementing Agile methodologies presents challenges, including ambiguity in adoption
and resource-demand imbalances. Additionally, the absence of standardized
estimation processes complicates effort and resource planning. Furthermore, inefficiencies
arise from the inadequate utilization of the prioritization lists, leading
to conflicts and missed opportunities. Addressing these challenges requires clarity,
consistency, and optimization in Agile implementation, estimation practices, and
prioritization frameworks.
In addressing these challenges, the study offers insights into potential solutions and
recommendations for optimizing Portfolio Management strategies. These include
enhancing clarity and consistency in Agile implementation, developing standardized
estimation processes, and refining prioritization frameworks to better align with organizational
goals and capabilities. By shedding light on the complexities of Portfolio
Management in a hybrid Agile-Stage-Gate environment, this research contributes to
a deeper understanding of how organizations can navigate the challenges of epic
prioritization, resource allocation, and decision-making in business environments.
Beskrivning
Ämne/nyckelord
Project Portfolio Management , Portfolio Management , Prioritization within Portfolio Management , Agile Methodologies , Stage-Gate Organizations , Agile- Stage-Gate Methods , Agile Planning