Requirement prioritization with quantitative data - A case study

Abstract

Feature content in system releases tends to be prioritized using limited amounts of qualitative user input and based on the opinions of those in product management. This leads to several problems including the wasteful allocation of R&D resources. In this paper, we present the results of our efforts to collect quantitative customer input before the start of development using a mock-up for a mobile application developed by Sony Mobile Communications Inc. Our research shows that (1) product managers change their prioritization when quantitative data is presented to them; (2) product managers change their prioritization which is converged to the prioritization indicated by the quantitative data (3) the quantitative data is regarded as beneficial by the product managers.