Title: Central activities of solution portfolio management

Authors: Taru Hakanen; Markus Jähi

Addresses: VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Visiokatu 4, P.O. Box 1300, FI-33101 Tampere, Finland ' VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland Ltd., Visiokatu 4, P.O. Box 1300, FI-33101 Tampere, Finland

Abstract: Portfolio management has been recognised as an essential capability in successful solution business. However, there is ambiguity in depicting which activities are central to solution portfolio management and conceptualising it. Drawing from product portfolio management, this study empirically elaborates solution portfolio management and identifies the related central activities in product- and service-oriented integrated solutions. The study conceptualises solution portfolio management as a strategy-driven, dynamic development process aimed at constructing a balanced solution portfolio between internal efficiency and customer needs, and at maximising value for both solution providers and their business customers. For managers, the study provides topical advice in terms of applying a strategy-driven and customer-focused approach to the industrial solution business.

Keywords: integrated solution; product-service offering; portfolio management; solution portfolio management; service orientation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSTM.2021.113577

International Journal of Services Technology and Management, 2021 Vol.27 No.1/2, pp.104 - 128

Accepted: 19 Jun 2020
Published online: 12 Mar 2021 *