Project Portfolio Management: A View From The Management Trenches

9.1. THE BUSINESS CASE FOUNDATION

There are many reasons why the business case becomes key to success. One primary reason is to gain alignment from all levels of the organization and not just have the case for change come authoritatively from the top of the organization. Associates at all levels of the organization should agree that the implementation of PPM will offer some beneficial results—for each functional area, for individuals, and, of course, for the organization as a whole. The answer to the question "What's in it for me?" becomes important so there can be a general agreement and alignment around the reasons for implementing PPM. This general agreement about the reasons for implementing PPM will help in promoting the engagement model and becomes a key enabler for the success of the organizational change management that will need to occur. The business case should also tie back to the organization's strategy so that there is alignment on the approach to successfully achieve the business results defined by the strategy. If employed and cultivated properly, PPM can become a key enabler for the organization in achieving its strategic goals.

Foundational Principle The business case for PPM should tie back to the organization's strategy.

As with any project, the PPM business case should include data and information to answer the following:

• Why are the funds needed (including sufficient information to help weigh this project against other needs)?

• What is the business value ...