A Symphony of Choices

CHAPTER 3SELECTING YOUR PROJECTS

“Portfolio Management Theory states that for any allocation of resources, an efficient set yields the greatest return for a given level of risk. While the right level of resources to allocate to projects cannot be known without considering further factors, what is clear is that once that level of investment is determined, then is there an optimal set of projects to implement for a given level of risk and investment?”

– Simon Moore

I hated sitting and waiting outside the board meeting. I was not privy to some of the other board business, and I was instructed to wait until I was called. I wanted to get it over with and move on with my day. I was extremely nervous. Maestro Fernando had not been much help with the budget. His attitude had been to just get it done. I felt like a failure in his presence – as if I had no clue what to do.

Sam made me feel better, but he was busy and not always available for questions. I probably would have quit if it weren't for Dr. Richard's help.

I looked at my watch again for the fifth time in ten minutes. My stomach gurgled. Did it mean I was hungry or anxious? Probably both.

The door finally opened, and Sam stepped out.

“Hey, Jerry. Thanks so much for waiting. We're breaking for lunch, so you can go pick up something. We're having our lunch brought in, so maybe come back in an hour, and we should be ready for you.”

An hour? I wasn't sure eating was the best idea until my nerves were better, but I supposed a snack ...