How to Align the Project Portfolio to the Strategic Plan

by Robert K. Wysocki

The processes for developing strategic plans are well known, and entire books have been written on the topic. But once the strategic plan is in place, the process of maintaining alignment of the project portfolio to the strategic plan remains a challenge for most organizations. The objective of the alignment decision is to create a portfolio that delivers maximum benefits to the organization. That is achieved by selecting and supporting projects that support the strategic plan. Simple is better, and process complexity only adds to misunderstandings, confusion, and poor decisions. This Executive Report defines a simple, integrated process for selecting the initial portfolio and maintaining its alignment to the strategic plan using an agile approach.