Product development in company ABC: Strategic analysis and recommendations

ABC is a mature company, operating in the power electronics market, using the stage gate process to develop products. This analysis evaluates the company's development process including innovation and portfolio management. An examination of the market reveals that speed-to-market and commitment to innovation are critical success factors. Benchmarking shows how comparable companies have adapted the traditional stage gate process to incorporate more flexible practices. Analysis of ABC uncovers the need to streamline the process and improve the commitment to innovation. Recommendations include reducing the number of gates, defining "GoIKill" criteria unique to each project but adhering to them, implementing flexibility in resource allocation to foster innovation and building the capacity for ongoing process improvement. A draft of an implementation plan is provided.