COMPEL Glossary / use-case-portfolio
Use Case Portfolio
A use case portfolio is a deliberately balanced collection of AI initiatives designed to achieve strategic outcomes while managing risk across a COMPEL cycle.
What this means in practice
Unlike a project list (independent initiatives), a portfolio evaluates use cases on their collective contribution to the target state. An effective portfolio balances three categories: foundation builders (modest direct ROI but critical infrastructure like feature stores or governance workflows), value demonstrators (visible, measurable wins that maintain executive confidence), and capability stretchers (initiatives that push the organization beyond its comfort zone). A portfolio composed entirely of one category will fail -- all foundation builders lose executive support, all demonstrators plateau, all stretchers create excessive risk. Portfolio design is a key Model stage activity.
Why it matters
A use case portfolio evaluates AI initiatives on their collective contribution to the target state, not individual merit. A portfolio composed entirely of one category will fail: all foundation builders lose executive support, all demonstrators plateau without infrastructure, and all stretchers create excessive risk. Deliberate portfolio balancing across these categories is what separates strategic AI transformation from ad hoc project selection.
How COMPEL uses it
Portfolio design is a key Model stage activity where use cases are balanced across foundation builders, value demonstrators, and capability stretchers. The Calibrate stage identifies candidate use cases across the organization. The Evaluate stage assesses portfolio-level performance and balance, and the Learn stage determines which categories need emphasis in the next cycle. Portfolio management at scale is the focus of Level 4 (Modules 4.1-4.6).
Related Terms
Other glossary terms mentioned in this entry's definition and context.