It’s the value that finds the project

I’m answering some questions for an interview regarding my book. The way one question was worded caused me to think.

In an strategically-drive organization, it’s the value the finds the project, not the other way around. The strategic plan defines the goals for the organization. We then define projects to achieve those goals. This is the role of the portfolio and project designers.

Only in innovation-driven companies does the project have to find it’s value — a more challenging proposition. This doesn’t mean I rebuke creativity, I just recognize that it’s more challenging to find project value and alignment. The well-defined OGBS and value tracks will still serve their purpose.

Cheers