What is MoSCoW Prioritization Method? Definition, Overview, and Best Practices

Summary

In this video, Sierra from ProductPlan explains the Moscow prioritization method, a widely used technique for managing product requirements. Moscow stands for Must-haves, Should-haves, Could-haves, and Will-not-haves, helping teams prioritize initiatives for releases. The method encourages alignment between stakeholders and product teams, ensuring clear objectives and resource allocation. Sierra walks through each category, highlighting their importance, and emphasizes how the Moscow method fosters consensus across departments. This prioritization technique enables teams to make informed decisions and deliver essential product features effectively.

Takeaways

• 😀 Moscow prioritization is a popular method for managing requirements in product development.
• 😀 The Moscow acronym stands for Must-haves, Should-haves, Could-haves, and Will-not-haves at this time (sometimes Wish instead of Will-not).
• 😀 The Moscow method was created by software expert Die Clegg while working at Oracle.
• 😀 This method helps key stakeholders understand which initiatives should be prioritized in a specific release.
• 😀 Before starting a Moscow analysis, align objectives, prioritize factors, and allocate resources across categories.
• 😀 Deciding how to settle prioritization disagreements upfront ensures smoother progress during analysis.
• 😀 Must-have initiatives are essential and non-negotiable; if omitted, the product may not function properly.
• 😀 Should-have initiatives add significant value but aren't critical for the product's core functionality.
• 😀 Could-have initiatives are nice-to-haves and have little impact if not included in the release.
• 😀 The Will-not-have category is key for managing expectations about what won't be included in a release.
• 😀 The Moscow method is ideal for cross-department collaboration, as it helps build consensus and provides a broader perspective.

Q & A

What is the Moscow method in prioritization?

The Moscow method is a prioritization technique that helps key stakeholders understand initiatives in a specific release. It stands for Must-haves, Should-haves, Could-haves, and Will not have at this time.

Why is the Moscow method important in product management?

The Moscow method is important because it helps teams prioritize initiatives based on their criticality and impact, ensuring that the most essential features are delivered while managing resources and expectations effectively.

What are the four categories in the Moscow method?

The four categories in the Moscow method are: Must-haves, Should-haves, Could-haves, and Will not have at this time (sometimes referred to as Wish instead of Will not have).

What does the Must-have category represent in the Moscow method?

Must-haves are non-negotiable needs for the product or project. These are essential for the product's success or the release's effectiveness. If left out, the product would not work properly or be viable.

What type of initiatives fall under the Should-have category?

Should-haves are important but not vital. These may include performance improvements, minor bug fixes, or new features that add significant value but are not essential for the product's basic functionality.

What are the key characteristics of Could-have initiatives?

Could-haves are not critical to the core functionality of the product. They are nice-to-have features that have a smaller impact if excluded and can be deferred without significantly affecting the project.

What is the significance of the Will-not-have category in Moscow prioritization?

The Will-not-have category is important because it sets clear expectations about what will not be included in the current release, helping to manage stakeholder expectations and avoid unnecessary scope creep.

How does the Moscow method help with resource allocation?

The Moscow method helps with resource allocation by allowing teams to decide how much effort should be dedicated to each category based on their relative importance. This ensures resources are optimally distributed to the most critical initiatives.

What is the role of stakeholders in the Moscow method process?

Stakeholders play a crucial role in aligning with the product team on objectives and prioritization factors. They help determine which initiatives are important, and through collaboration, they ensure consensus on priorities.

How can prioritization disagreements be handled effectively when using the Moscow method?

To avoid delays, it's crucial to decide on a process for resolving disagreements about prioritization before beginning the Moscow analysis. This proactive approach helps prevent any issues from stalling progress.