Value Optimization - Hardcover

by Robert B. Stewart (Author)

Discover the proven process for maximizing the potential value of any project.

Showing readers how to apply value optimization techniques to project and performance management, dramatically increasing results and efficiency, Value Optimization for Project and Performance Management is written to compliment the Project Management Body of Knowledge, the guidance published by the Project Management Institute (PMI(R)), making it readily applicable for any project manager.

• Presents methodology applied with hundreds of clients across a range of industries
• Filled with practical facilitation and implementation tips
• Presents a cohesive theory, structured framework, and diverse toolset
• Walks you through the value optimization process, showing you how to transform the way a product or process is perceived

Brimming with examples, Value Optimization for Project and Performance Management provides a link to a free software demo for you to get started in applying value optimization in your own organization.

(PMI is a registered mark of Project Management Institute, Inc.)

Front Jacket

Value Optimization for Project and Performance Management

In late 2008, the world was confronted with the sudden end to the unbridled growth that the global economy experienced earlier in the decade. At the heart of this "irrational exuberance" was the delusion that the market could only go up; that growth would be perpetual; that the uncertainty posed by risks could be completely avoided; and that value could be created from nothing. Individuals, organizations, and indeed the global market often behave in a manner that is completely irrational with respect to economic decision-making.

Value Optimization for Project and Performance Management will provide you with a cohesive theory, structured framework, and diverse toolset to apply optimization techniques to dramatically improve project value. Inside, you will discover:

• A methodology that has been used by hundreds of organizations across a wide range of industries

• The nine factors that most commonly lead to poor project value

• Techniques for performance and value measurement

• The power of function-driven thinking

• Insights on creativity, critical thinking, and idea development--the key ingredients for improving project value

• Practical information on the facilitation and implementation of the techniques and processes that are presented

Written by internationally respected value methodology consultant Robert Stewart, this innovative book authoritatively walks you through the value optimization process using a variety of examples and case studies demonstrating how this process is applied. In presenting the concept of value optimization, the author challenges you to look beyond the traditional indicators of value, price, and customer satisfaction, and instead consider value from the perspective of functions and how they are performed relative to cost, time, and risk.

Back Jacket

Praise for Value Optimization for Project and Performance Management

"In this book, Rob Stewart has captured the interplay of priority and value optimization in an exceptional way. He has reached beyond a simple mechanical treatment of 'how' to approach value optimization. The book transcends value optimization from an initial concept formed in the labs of GE, where value optimization became an important pursuit, to organizationally enabling value management through teams, development, and implementation, and finally how to lead by value thinking."--Dr. Thomas Saaty, University Professor, University of Pittsburgh, and John Saaty, CEO, Decision Lens, Inc.

"Rob Stewart's book marks the professionalization of a Value Methodology. He brings theoretical and practical insights from many sources and academic research to move this community from its craft-based origins to a social science focused on innovation and creating added value. This marks a new chapter for Value Engineering and Value Management, especially as more and more organizations adopt projects as the means to implement designs that leverage value. It is a must-read for anyone who needs to find ways to deliver outcomes that increase value with minimal investment of time and money to fund such a search."--Dr. Roy Woodhead, HP Transformation Consulting, EMEA Leadership Team

"I translated Rob's first book, Fundamentals of Value Methodology, back in 2005. I initially made the decision to introduce this book in South Korea because of his straightforward and practical approach to value improvement. In his new book, Value Optimization for Project and Performance Management, his approach is much more refined and improved. Of special interest to me is his introduction of risk in the consideration of value. I find it ironic that most people think deterministically with respect to the state of a project's performance, cost, and schedule. This book deals with a methodology that considers the uncertainties related to these key factors. I was also very surprised by the author's creativity in incorporating risk into the definition and measurement of value. I think this book is the best one I have seen since I was first introduced to the value methodology. I have not seen an approach to value that is as well described as this. I believe this book will serve as a kind of oasis to those seeking to find a means to improve the value of their projects, products, or services."--Dr. Jong-Kwon Lim, CEO, Infra Asset Management Corporation

"The text brings the reader up to date on the practice of Value Methodology, as well as the application of Value Metrics that emphasizes the importance of measuring improvements in project performance as being of equal or greater importance than just the realization of cost savings. This book will also become a valuable addition to colleges and universities that are looking for a classroom text or reference on the topic."--Ronald J. Tanenbaum, PhD, CVS, PE, GE, FASCE, President, GeoVal, Inc.

Author Biography

ROBERT B. STEWART, CVS, FSAVE, PMP, is President of Value Management Strategies, Inc., a consulting firm specializing in the application of value methodology to projects and business processes. He has led over 300 value studies for clients in private and public sectors and trained thousands of individuals worldwide in value optimization techniques. He is a Fellow of SAVE International and serves as a Director on the Lawrence Delos Miles Value Foundation, a nonprofit organization established to promote and fund the development of educational programs, new applications, and a research library for the study of Value Methodology (VM).