Traffic Queue Theory

Continuing with the theme of applying Real World Thinking examples to the world of technology – it’s time to look at traffic queue theory – or at least a very simple version thereof.

Random motorway queues at busy times are often formed by a single vehicle slowing down. Vehicles then arrive at the back of the queue much faster than those at the front can speed up causing the familiar blockages and frustration. The inbound is faster than the outbound. See where I’m going with this?

In the world of retail technology, new requirements and ideas are produced at such frequency that the development capability and capacity will never be enough.  Backlog inevitably builds. Portfolio management is therefore ultimately about compromise and shared understanding of priority.

Good leadership and consultancy needs to be able to manage shared expectation, communicate relative business benefit and manage an Engaged Roadmap.

My 14 year old daughter gave me this idea and I promised I’d give her credit.