¶ … Company is a case with the problem of determining a project management process for new product development. Answer the following questions:
What does this case demonstrate about the effect of poor project screening methods on a firm's ability to manage projects effectively?
This case demonstrates that even organizations with a significant amount of project management experience can make critical mistakes. Even though the organization has implemented a project management structure and operate under a professional project management structure, they missed the potential to create synergies between different projects that are related.
How would project portfolio management help to improve the situation at Keflavik?
The project portfolio management could significantly improve the entire organizations project effectiveness. The organization's consultant was most likely correct in recognizing the extent in which the organization was missing opportunities to share project expertise between various projects. The project portfolio office can help facilitate better selection techniques when choosing projects. They can also assist in sharing assets and resources between different projects so that they are utilized properly. These resources...
For example, a central project office can make sure a piece of manufacturing equipment is shared appropriately between different projects that require its use. However, it can also help centralize lessons learned, notes on vendors or subcontractors, and many other intangible items that can be a vital asset in a portfolio management office.
Case Study 2: Widgets 'R Us
The Widgets 'R Us case study is a case with a problem of how the company is set up and how the company will handle operations with its projected growth. Answer the following questions:
You have been called in as a consultant to analyze the operations at WRU. Based on the readings, what would you advise Widgets 'R Us to do in order to sustain the competitive advantage in the widget market? What structural design changes might be undertaken to improve the operations at the company?
The organization needs to reorganize its structure to be more responsive to changes in the market place. A cross functional project matrix would allow the company to keep pace with the new dynamics in the market place. Although the company has been able to maintain a competitive advantage it must adapt…
