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How the air traffic control model can be applied to project portfolio management.
A white paper by Innotas, a company specialized in project portfolio management and resource control, highlights how much organizations would gain by applying the methods of air traffic control to manage their project portfolios.
Take the example of air traffic over the United States: it seems miraculous that thousands of aircraft can fly every day without a single significant incident. Yet it is no miracle. It rests on the whole set of tools, systems, procedures and rules that have been put in place and constantly improved.
Many points in common
Air traffic control and project portfolio management have a great deal in common:
- they handle a large number of objects in constant motion;
- they involve many high-value resources that must be protected;
- they demand relentless monitoring;
- they can lead to disaster if poorly managed.
Why does air traffic control deliver such results?
Tools and technology give staff the visibility they need to guide aircraft safely, from take-off to landing. They are specialized, complementary and interconnected, providing a perfect, instant view of every object to control and enabling fast decisions.
Methodology is just as critical: a proven system of rules and procedures ensures safe navigation for many elements moving through the same space at the same time.
Continuous resource management, of people and equipment, makes air transport genuinely possible, from ticketing to highly qualified pilots.
Integration, finally: tools, technology, methodology and resources must be designed to work together, to deliver complete visibility and an optimal outcome.
Three objectives that transfer to project leadership
Strategic alignment
Air traffic control makes sure passengers and aircraft reach their intended destinations; project leadership makes sure every project meets the business objectives it serves.
Operational performance
Air traffic control ensures that all aircraft and systems operate optimally for safe travel; project leadership ensures that all projects stay on the course that was set.
Optimal use of resources
On both sides, the aim is to manage tools, technology and people for the most effective use.
Published by NetsFive.