Criteria to define the minimum requirement to be project worthy

Portfolio Management

John Zurflueh Program Manager| Getinge Pompton Plains, Nj, United States

Finding many small initiatives, especially in sustaining activities as we assess the full range of 'projects' in the organization as we look to complete an initial prioritization effort. I'm looking for some perspectives on a minimum threshold for something to be deemed a project to even be considered.

For example, at least 2 week duration or 80 hours of work, 2 or more team members, etc.?

Posted: Jan 12, 2024 10:59 AM

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Keith Novak Tukwila, Wa, United States

I look at prioritization and whether an effort amounts to a project as two different things.

Priority is based on how the project aligns to business initiatives like cost or error reduction, safety, etc. Some we may decide to go do regardless of metrics like ROI such as safety. Others we rate based on benefit and required effort, and perhaps a minimum threshold like a payback period.

Whether it becomes a project or not is based on cost, RAAs, and level of effort. If we can finish the initiative in less than 2 weeks, don't spend the effort on a charter, and all the supporting project documents; just get it done. It may also be organizational such as 2 or more functions are involved so we need buy-in for support. Another guideline is whether one senior manager has the authority to authorize the total budget without seeking director level approval.

Posted: Jan 12, 2024 11:53 AM

Rami Kaibni

Community Champion

Senior Projects Manager | Field & Marten Associates New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada

John, this is not a one-size-fit-all and it’s tough to provide a minimum threshold for what can be deemed a project because this is unique to every organization and their strategic goals. Sometimes a one day project, which can contribute to a strategic goal can be as valuable as a one month project. Many factors contribute to this: The size of the organization, vision, mission, strategic goals.

Posted: Jan 12, 2024 12:14 PM

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Criteria to define the minimum requirement to be project worthy

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