The Sign of Times – Improving the Odds of Successfully Delivering Automotive Projects

The concept of “project” is a Holy Grail of organizational change that heralds The New. Projects inherently come with risk and uncertainty. In the corporate world, risk aversion is an instinct that foregoes venturing into uncharted territories of product innovation. Taking project risks too lightly may lead to unintended consequences for the project or the entire company.

As consultants in project management, project coaching, and process quality, we are often called to help projects return to a regular operational mode. In the automotive business area of systems and software development, the margin of error is thin, schedules are tight, technologies are often new, and there is no way to postpone the SOP. Amid hundreds of proverbial and literal moving parts, a well-thought-out and efficiently functioning project management system–also known as the systems development process, is critical to the project’s success.

Depending on the starting situation, an iterative approach with a smooth and systematic progression is necessary to give the project members the possibility to manage all main tasks in parallel. This applies also to the implementation of the required standards.

For projects that start at a lower capability level, we’ve developed a practical approach we call CORE SPICE. The goal of CORE SPICE is to accelerate the optimal transition from an initial, challenging state of a project to a well-organized and smooth-out project operation while avoiding the usual pitfalls of organizational distress.

To learn more about this approach, stay in touch with our following articles.


Let’s start a conversation on LinkedIn or X.com (formerly Twitter).

United Mentors GmbH | Website | + posts

I am a project manager (Project Manager Professional, PMP), a Project Coach, a management consultant, and a book author. I have worked in the software industry since 1992 and as a manager consultant since 1998. Please visit my United Mentors home page for more details. Contact me on LinkedIn for direct feedback on my articles.

MSCA Management System Consulting and Auditing s.à.rl. | Website | + posts

With extensive experience in the automotive sector, I am a seasoned professional dedicated to enhancing management systems. My consulting approach is rooted in a deep understanding of organizational needs, leading to sustainable improvements. My project management acumen spans from initial scope definition to the final stages of project closure, ensuring seamless transitions and impactful implementations. A firm believer in the power of coaching, I emphasize the importance of involving practitioners in process improvements, ensuring that changes are both comprehended and aptly executed. My expertise also encompasses gap analyses, process modeling, and adherence to industry standards such as ISO 9001, ISO 27001, Automotive SPICE, and PMI. With a rich background that includes roles in gasoline injection systems development, sales, quality management, and consulting, and as a certified Project Management Professional (PMP)® and Competent Assessor for Automotive SPICE®, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a commitment to excellence in every endeavor.

martozi consulting | Website | + posts

With over 20 years of experience in the automotive industry, I have honed my expertise in driving assistant systems, strategy development, and project management. As the founder of martozi, I consult and assist companies in sales, business development, and engineering services. My technical prowess enables me to comprehend intricate correlations, ensuring optimum solutions for established firms and startups.

Throughout my career, I've been at the forefront of developing cutting-edge software, recruiting top-tier talent, and forging strategic partnerships. My accomplishments include setting up successful teams, executing high-stakes projects, and fostering growth in automotive startups. My association with the Volkswagen Group and my vast network complements my comprehensive understanding of the industry.

In addition to my corporate pursuits, I impart knowledge as a Lecturer at the University of Applied Sciences Künzelsau, ensuring the next generation of engineers benefits from real-world insights.