Even if you’re new to the project management world, you’ve likely heard the term phase- or stage-gate before. These popular project management methodologies have a wide range of applications across industries and project types. But wait – what does the gating process refer to, and how can it serve new product development? We’ve broken down some of the big ideas behind what makes this strategy effective so you can understand the process, benefits, and best practices.
Intro to Stage- and Phase-Gate for Product Development
The terms “phase-gate” or “stage-gate” are used interchangeably and refer to a specific project management process. This method breaks projects into multiple steps or phases, each with a “gate” that serves as a checkpoint.
This system can be especially helpful in product development, allowing for consistent check-ins to ensure that plans, prototypes, and distribution methods are aligned and meeting stakeholder expectations. The stage-gate method can also accelerate new product development, as it aims to help teams tackle complex projects while tracking specific criteria.
What Does the Gating Process Refer To?
Gates and gate reviews are key parts of the phase-gate method. They provide regular opportunities for teams to determine if a project is ready to proceed to the next phase or if they need to go back and rework a deliverable.
When you outline the scope of the project and define each phase, the “gates” are also determined. These gates have specific criteria and deliverables to meet before the project can move forward.
This process helps companies avoid risk by ensuring that project requirements are being met effectively and within scope. By using the right project task management tools, teams can continually evaluate project health and decide to move forward, take a step back, or scrap it altogether.
These consistent gate checks help keep everyone on the same page and make sure that the project remains aligned with the overall goals of the business.
Why Use a Gated Process for NPD?
The phase-gate process can be useful for many different project types. When it comes to new product development, however, there are specific benefits to using a system of defined stages and checkpoints.
Mitigate risk
The gating process means that projects only move forward if they meet specific criteria. This means there is less opportunity for resource waste, as projects are subject to constant evaluation for quality and viability at every step of the way.
Improve project agility
Gates provide ideal opportunities for any pivots or adaptations in the project. Rather than seeing a project through to the end with a rigid project structure, the phase-gate process allows teams more flexibility when it comes to project execution.
Foster a collaborative environment
Regular team meetings and check-ins help keep everybody aligned and on target. By involving team members and stakeholders in gate reviews, you can create a more transparent, collaborative ecosystem that encourages more effective communication.
How to Implement the Gating Process & Methodology
When implementing a new process, there is always room for error and improvement. Here are some best practices to keep in mind when planning a project with the stage-gate method,
- Step 1: Clearly Define Gate Criteria. To be effective, the gates between each phase must include specific, detailed criteria. These should suit the project’s ultimate goals and serve as appropriate benchmarks for each stage in the development process.
- Step 2: Use the Right Tools. A well-equipped PPM software makes it easy to track phase development and manage gate checks. Having an interactive, visual platform allows for effective collaboration and communication, keeping everybody on the same page.
- Step 3: Refine Your Process. As with any new process, it’s good to test it out with smaller, lower-stakes tasks before implementing it for large-scale projects. With each execution, evaluate your process and make appropriate adjustments until you’ve found the method that works best for your team.
Master Phase-Gate Product Development with the Right Tech
Now that you have a better understanding of the phase-gate method, it’s easy to see why having the right software is vital. The phase-gate strategy relies on accountability and visibility, with gates that include easily measured objectives.
Sciforma Vantage is an integrated software platform with all of the tools you need to plan, track, and measure project progress from start to finish. Get high-level and detailed views of each phase with reporting tools that make it easy to stay organized and goal-oriented.
To learn more about Sciforma’s revolutionary platform, sign up for a PPM software demo and equip your team with the project management resources they need to realize continual success and innovation.
