Project categorization systems and their role for project portfolio management

Nowadays, firms cope with a multitude of single projects or projects grouped together in programs and portfolios. In such environments management complexity is reflected by the diverse types of projects. Recognizing commonalities and differences between the various types is essential; thus project categorization systems are utilized for this reason. The research aimed to investigate the nature of categorization systems and to identify their potential role for project portfolio management. A conceptual framework was developed through a comprehensive literature review. The research approach followed qualitative multiple case-study design with multifaceted data collection, including semi-structured interviews and organizational documents. The cases illustrate how organizations employ categorization systems to adapt project management practices and assign type of project respective to internal competence frameworks the project manager. In the examined case study organisations the purposes of categorization systems could be extended to the strategic level for project selection and prioritization, balancing the portfolio and resource allocation.