The MoSCoW Method

One of the tools to help us prioritize.

Source: Project Smart

Published: May 2014

The MoSCoW Method

There is always more to do than time or funding permits, hence the need for prioritization.

The MoSCoW method is a prioritization technique used in management, business analysis, project management, and software development to reach a common understanding with stakeholders on the importance they place on the delivery of each requirement.

M - MUST meet this requirement to be viable, non-negotiable.

S - SHOULD meet this requirement to achieve success, important but not vital.

C - COULD meet this requirement if efficient, a nice to have.

W - WOULD like to provide this requirement in the future; re-evaluate later.

Example: Customer requirements for autonomous vehicles may be categorized as

M - MUST be safe and reliable.

S - SHOULD be more fuel-efficient than vehicles today.

C - COULD be more spacious without a need for the steering wheel.

W - WOULD be nice if it parked itself after dropping a rider off.