Future-robust product portfolio development: insights into the advancement of product portfolios in companies – an interview study

A volatile environment and an increasing number of products along with a growing range of functions pose a challenge for companies when it comes to further development. Existing methods are no longer sufficient to cope with these challenges. In order to develop new methods, the process and challenges in the advancement of product portfolios must be understood. In this paper we conduct an interview study with ten experts to gain a better understanding of the advancement of product portfolios. Triggers, changes and actions are examined and goals and requirements for new methods are derived.