A VM program manager has the resources to undertake one VM study, but 4 candidate...

The correct selection is D because it provides the strongest balance of study readiness, timing, and probability of return . A VM program manager must allocate limited study resources to the candidate most likely to produce measurable value improvement. SAVE guidance states that VM produces the greatest benefit early in development when basic project information is established but major design resources have not yet been fully committed. ( cdn..com ) It also notes that later studies are more likely to increase implementation cost. ( cdn..com )

Option D is therefore superior because a 30% design with a detailed estimate gives the VM team enough factual information for function, cost, worth, and alternative analysis, while the project is still early enough for recommendations to be implemented economically. The fact that the previous similar project achieved the target ROI further supports selection because it indicates a credible return pattern. Option A is too late because the design is complete and ROI is already doubtful. Options B and C are too immature because design has not started; C is additionally weak because the similar previous project failed to meet ROI.

References/topics: VM Programs; Value Program Management; Study Selection; ROI; Timing of VM Studies; Preparation Phase.