Xbox 360 fast-track launch capitalizes on Microsoft Office Project
Microsoft used the Microsoft Office Enterprise Project Management (EPM) solution to meet tight production deadlines and launch the next generation of its Xbox 360 video game in time to capitalize on a market opportunity.
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Overview
As 2005 drew to a close, Microsoft found itself under the gun to deliver a new version of its popular Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system in time for the Christmas retail season. What made the challenge especially daunting was that no fewer than 90 functional groups were involved in the launch. Obviously, the usual development process whereby each group followed an independent schedule, with personal networking used to keep everyone more or less on the same page, was not going to work in this case.
Instead what was needed was a consistent way to:
| • | Track and coordinate project schedules. |
| • | Establish dependencies between groups. |
| • | Promote effective collaboration on launch-related events. |
Solution
Microsoft worked with certified partner Project Assistants for help in keeping the Xbox 360 launch on the fast track. The consulting firm was able to achieve the necessary coordination among the various groups involved in the project by customizing the Microsoft EPM solution.
Key components of the solution included:
Business benefits
With the EPM solution, Microsoft was able to meet its tight launch schedule and deliver the new Xbox to market in time for the holiday season. Success was built on several key benefits conferred by the solution:
| • | Better business intelligence. By making the development process transparent, the solution allowed decision makers to identify milestones that were in jeopardy and attend to potential obstacles. |
| • | Reduced staffing needs. Streamlining the process meant that project staff could be reduced by the equivalent of three full-time employees. |
| • | Fewer and shorter meetings. With key personnel more easily able to keep up to date on the development arc, the only meetings needed were those focusing on new issues. |
The greatest benefit, however, proved to be to the bottom line. If delivery of the Xbox to retailers had been delayed, it would have cost Microsoft $7 million per day—costs the company was able to avoid due in large part to the EPM solution.
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