PM-Professional Switzerland - Programs and Projects for Innovation

Introduction Artificial intelligence amplifies human capabilities by providing speed, scale, and access to vast knowledge. AI synthesises data, highlights patterns, and proposes options. Human beings remain indispensable for setting goals, weighing values, and making decisions that require judgment, empathy, and accountability. 1. AI as a productivity multiplier AI automates repetitive cognitive tasks, accelerates research synthesis, and generates structured options from unstructured data. By delegating data collection, baseline analysis, and scenario generation to AI, professionals reclaim time for higher-value activities such as stakeholder alignment and creative problem solving. The measurable benefit is increased throughput and faster iteration cycles without requiring proportional increases in headcount. 2. Information versus decision AI provides evidence, not verdicts. Outputs must be interpreted through organisational purpose and ethical frameworks. Decision-making requires prio...

When you're leading a business unit in a competitive industry, having a crystal-clear 5-year plan isn’t just strategic—it’s essential. Whether you're launching a new product or scaling an existing solution, long-term planning helps unify your team, attract investors, and navigate the market with confidence. In this post, we’ll walk through a practical framework for developing a 5-year business plan, then apply it directly to an ERP software company targeting SMEs in Europe. Let’s dig in. Part 1: Universal Steps to Build a 5-Year Business Plan 1. Set Your Vision & Goals   Begin with purpose. Clarify what success looks like in 5 years—market share, profitability, product impact—and define measurable objectives aligned with your mission. 2. Analyse Your Market   Get intimate with your terrain. Who are your customers? Who are your competitors? What trends, regulations, and innovations are shaping the landscape? 3. Break It Into Milestones   Divide your jour...

  We live in an era of incredible technological advancement, where breakthroughs once confined to science fiction are rapidly becoming reality. While much of the buzz around quantum computing revolves around theoretical concepts and security applications, let's dive into a real-world scenario that has the potential to directly impact our lives: revolutionizing medical diagnosis through 3D CT scans. The Challenge: Decoding the Complexity of 3D Imaging Imagine a doctor facing a complex 3D CT scan, a detailed image of the human body's intricate inner workings. These scans hold a wealth of information, but the sheer volume of data makes analysis time-consuming and challenging. Traditional computers struggle to quickly identify subtle patterns that could indicate disease. This is where quantum computing steps in, offering a powerful new approach. The Quantum Leap: Leveraging Superposition and Entanglement At the heart of quantum computing lies two key phenomena: superposition and en...

Implementing an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system is like embarking on a transformative journey for your medium-sized company. It promises streamlined processes, improved efficiency, and a unified platform to drive innovation. However, the path to a successful ERP implementation is fraught with potential pitfalls. Let's explore the most common mistakes that companies make and how to steer clear of them to ensure a smooth and successful transition. 1. Lack of Clear Objectives Mistake: Setting out without a clear destination—failing to define specific, measurable goals for the ERP implementation. Solution: Establish clear objectives and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) that align with your company's strategic vision. This provides direction and keeps the project focused on delivering tangible benefits. 2. Inadequate Planning Mistake: Skipping essential preparation—rushing through or overlooking the detailed planning phase. Solution: Invest time in meticulous planning...

  Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) is a well-established process in many companies, guiding products from initial concept to launch. However, a critical aspect often gets overlooked: the product's end-of-life (EOL) and its planned obsolescence. This is especially crucial in the B2B market, where products often have longer lifespans and are integrated into complex systems. The Importance of a Product Roadmap A well-defined product roadmap is essential for managing a product's lifecycle effectively. It outlines the planned evolution of the product, including: Future versions and updates: This includes improvements in functionality, performance, and security. Technology upgrades: This ensures the product remains compatible with the latest technologies and standards. EOL strategy: This defines when and how the product will be phased out. By having a clear roadmap, businesses can: Meet evolving customer needs: Regular updates and upgrades ensure the product continues to m...

  In today's rapidly evolving automotive industry, companies are racing to innovate and capture market share. One such company, SAIC Motor Corporation, has emerged as a formidable player, challenging traditional automakers with its strategic approach and commitment to technological advancement. Key Strategies Driving SAIC's Success Strategic Partnerships: Global Collaborations: SAIC has forged strategic partnerships with global giants like General Motors and Volkswagen. These collaborations have enabled the company to access cutting-edge technologies, share resources, and expand its global footprint. Knowledge Sharing: By partnering with established automakers, SAIC has gained valuable insights into market trends, consumer preferences, and manufacturing processes. Electric Vehicle (EV) Focus: Pioneering EV Technology: SAIC has invested heavily in research and development of electric vehicles. This strategic focus positions the company to capitalize on the growing ...

  Imagine this: You're a leading automotive parts manufacturer, supplying critical components to global OEMs. Your service management office (SMO) is the unsung hero, ensuring seamless operations and customer satisfaction. Yet, amidst the complexities of the automotive industry, with its stringent quality standards and rapid technological advancements, your SMO is feeling the pressure. It's time to shift gears. The Challenge Your SMO is bogged down in reactive firefighting, struggling to keep up with the demands of a dynamic supply chain. Customer complaints are increasing, and there's a growing need for proactive problem-solving and continuous improvement. Your organization recognizes the potential of a project-based approach, but how do you translate this concept into tangible results? Project-Based Transformation The solution lies in projectizing your SMO. By breaking down service management into discrete projects, you can focus on specific challenges, measure outcomes, ...

  Introduction Imagine a world where planning a ferry trip to a Greek island or an Albanian coastal town is as easy as booking a flight. That's the vision behind our ferry booking platform. We're not just building a website; we're constructing a digital marketplace that will revolutionize ferry travel. This post will delve into the technical architecture, development strategy, and go-to-market plan for this ambitious project. 1. Architecture: A Foundation for Scalability A robust architecture is paramount to handle the expected influx of users and data. We'll adopt a microservices architecture for its flexibility, scalability, and resilience. This means breaking down the platform into smaller, independent services that can be developed, deployed, and scaled independently. Core Microservices : Booking engine, payment gateway integration, inventory management, user management, and analytics. Data Layer : A cloud-based, NoSQL database like MongoDB for flexibility and scal...

Innovation thrives on clear communication, meticulous tracking, and adaptability. But managing all these aspects within an innovation project can be a juggling act. This is where Artificial Intelligence (AI) steps in, offering project managers a powerful toolkit to streamline processes and boost success rates. AI: Your Innovation Project's Superpower Imagine an assistant that can handle the heavy lifting of project management, freeing you to focus on the strategic aspects. That's the magic of AI in project management. Here's how it empowers you throughout the project lifecycle: 1. Planning Phase: AI as Your Strategic Partner Risk Assessment: AI can analyze historical data and identify potential risks lurking within your project. This proactive approach allows you to develop mitigation strategies and minimize surprises down the road. Budgeting with Confidence: AI can analyze similar projects and predict resource needs with greater accuracy. This translates into realis...

The industrial automation landscape is a complex ecosystem, but its value chain is the key to understanding its inner workings. From part suppliers to machine vendors, each player contributes a vital piece to the puzzle. Here's a breakdown of the key actors: Part Suppliers: These companies provide the raw materials and components that make up the industrial automation systems. Data Management Platforms: These companies provide software platform to handle devices and data.  Distributors / Sales Points: They act as the bridge between suppliers and system integrators, ensuring parts are readily available. System Integrators: These specialists design, build, and implement customized automation solutions for end-users. Machine Vendors: They offer pre-built machines and equipment for specific automation tasks. Business Customers: Manufacturers and industrial facilities who leverage automation to optimize their operations. Industry 4.0 throws a (data-driven) wrench into this mix. ...

  We've all been there. A project you once saw brimming with potential has morphed into a multi-headed beast – months behind schedule and haemorrhaging hundreds of thousands of dollars. That's exactly what I inherited when I was assigned to lead the "Phoenix Project" (name a bit ironic at the time). Facing the Flames: Initial Assessment My first order of business was a thorough examination of the project landscape. I pored over documentation, interviewed stakeholders, and conducted deep dives into the team's workflow. The situation was grim. Scope creep had mutated the project's original goals, communication channels resembled a game of broken telephone, and morale was at an all-time low. The Sponsor's Scorched-Earth Solution During my initial meeting with the project sponsor, the tension was so thick you could cut it with a Gantt chart. As I presented my findings, his face contorted in frustration. Before I could even propose solutions, his response was ...

  The internal combustion engine has dominated personal transportation for over a century. However, climate change concerns are pushing for a shift towards electric vehicles (EVs). While aeroplanes remain the biggest polluters per passenger mile, governments are focusing on personal vehicles with ambitious goals like the 2035 ban on new gas-powered car sales in Europe. Yet, EV sales are hitting a roadblock, and many manufacturers are refocusing on hybrids. Why the disconnect? Change Management and the EV Rollout From a change management perspective (as outlined in  e.g., Prosci ADKAR Model ), a successful transition requires assessing stakeholder change readiness. In the case of EVs, key stakeholders include: Markets: Consumer perception and purchase intent are crucial. Are potential buyers aware of EV benefits and comfortable with range limitations? A study by McKinsey & Company (source on McKinsey ) found that range anxiety is a major barrier to adoption. Regulations: ...

In the world of medical devices, ensuring patient safety is paramount. This is where risk management comes in, playing a crucial role throughout the entire design and development process. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) has established a key standard for this process: ISO 14971:2009 – Application of risk management to medical devices . This post dives into how ISO 14971 guides medical device manufacturers in managing risks, specifically focusing on the Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA) . Demystifying Risk Management with ISO 14971 ISO 14971 outlines a systematic approach to identifying potential hazards associated with a medical device, analyzing the risks they pose, and implementing controls to mitigate those risks. This ensures that throughout the product lifecycle, from conception to post-market surveillance, patient safety remains a top priority (Chapter 1). FMEA: A Cornerstone of Risk Analysis (ISO 14971, Chapter 4) FMEA is a powerful tool employ...

Let's face it, there's a certain thrill that comes with starting a new business. Investors often jump in with wide eyes, excited by the fresh experience and the potential for explosive growth. They envision customers clamoring for their product or service, and a rapid climb to financial freedom with a sky-high return on investment (ROI). But hold on there, partner! Before you get swept away in a whirlwind of unrealistic expectations, let's talk about reality.  Here's the truth: in today's competitive landscape, building a successful business requires a strong value proposition and a sustainable foundation . Here's why: Customers Aren't Waiting: Don't fall into the trap of thinking customers will magically appear, ready to throw money at your offering. You need to convince them why your product or service is the best choice, and that takes effort. Free Cash Flow? Not So Fast: Building a sustainable business with consistent cash flow is a marathon, not...

Software is built on features, each promising a specific benefit to your customers. However, not all features are created equal. Agile methodologies, particularly when paired with the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), help development teams prioritise features based on   Return on Investment (ROI) . Here's how it works: Break it Down:  The software is decomposed into smaller, manageable units called epics and features. Value Focus:  Epics and features are prioritized based on the value they deliver to the customer. This value translates directly to the customer's willingness to pay. PI Planning:  Using SAFe, development cycles are called Program Increments (PIs). During PI planning, teams consider the ROI of features when building the development roadmap. Fast ROI, High Margins:  By focusing on high-value features first, you can get those features to market quickly. This means faster returns on development investment and higher profit margins thanks to features wit...

Imagine your company – a vibrant hub of innovation with a growing team of engineers (between 200 and 1000). You've embraced Agile principles, and your Scrum teams are churning out fantastic results. But as your product portfolio expands, so does the complexity. This post dives into how to navigate this growth while retaining the core strengths of Agile. The Power of Scrum Teams: The Agile Foundation Scrum teams are the beating heart of Agile development. These small, cross-functional units foster collaboration, rapid iteration, and a laser focus on delivering value. They excel at tackling well-defined projects and responding quickly to change. Scaling Up: When Simplicity Meets Complexity But as your company scales, so does the scope of your projects. A single product might evolve into a complex platform with multiple modules, each resembling a product itself. Suddenly, managing a portfolio of products with 5-12 Scrum teams working on each one becomes a whole new ball game. The Ch...

As an Italian native engineer, I started my career immersed in an international team. This early exposure to diverse nationalities and cultures instilled in me a deep appreciation for the impact culture has on communication. Traveling extensively for work and now living in multicultural Switzerland has further broadened my perspective. From my Indian friends to colleagues in the US, UK and Germany, my interactions have highlighted the importance of adapting communication styles. Dealing with China, America and even native Swiss colleagues demonstrates the need for cultural awareness in every interaction. Moreover, being part of the international PMI team has been an invaluable experience. Witnessing how different countries manage projects and stakeholder communication based on their cultural norms has solidified my understanding. Just like a single recipe doesn't appeal to everyone's palate, a one-size-fits-all communication approach is ineffective in a globalized world. Here...

Machine vision, the technology that equips machines with "sight," is rapidly transforming industries, particularly the global supply chain. From robotics to video security, its applications are streamlining processes and boosting efficiency across the complex web of international trade. But who's leading the charge in this technological revolution? Current data suggests China is pulling away from the pack. Europe's Enduring Strength: Market Leader:  Europe remains a dominant force in machine vision, with a well-established industry accounting for a significant portion of the global market share. According to a 2023 report by Technavio, the global industrial machine vision market size is expected to reach over $24 billion by 2027, with APAC (Asia Pacific) leading the growth at 34% CAGR [Source: Technavio - Global Industrial Machine Vision Market 2023-2027]. While specific figures for Europe aren't isolated, the report highlights its continued presence as a key play...