Using Agile Project Management for your team
If you have any knowledge of or experience in project management, then we’re sure you’ve heard of Agile methodology.
According to research by Monday.com, over half of the most innovative companies in the world are using at least one Agile methodology technique. So why is it so popular for project management?
In this article, we’ll explore Agile project management’s history, values and techniques so you can find out if it has practices that best fit you, your team, and your goals. Let’s get started!
What is Agile Project Management?
Agile project management isn’t just another buzzword—it’s a transformative approach that has revolutionised how teams tackle tasks.
It’s all about being fast, flexible, and, as the name suggests, ‘agile’. In essence, this method breaks down larger projects into manageable, bite-sized ‘sprints’, empowering teams to adapt quickly to changes, encouraging continuous improvement, and ensuring a laser-sharp focus on customer value.
It brings everyone together, encouraging collaboration and active participation.
Why was Agile Project Management created?
Projectised Organisation
There’s a brilliant article in the Harvard Business Review (Nov-Dec 2021 issue) written by Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez. It sums up the arrival of the Project Economy and explained how many organisations were (and still are) transitioning to a “projectised” structure.
In particular, this article focuses on the issues surrounding the transition to projectised organisation and why some executives were (and, again, still are) resistant to this stage.
Nieto-Rodriguez summed up the importance of overcoming this resistance:
“Leaders need to recognize that their role in the project economy involves more than just the direct sponsorship of individual initiatives. At a broader level, it involves being clear and courageous in selecting and prioritizing strategic projects. It involves adopting a project-driven structure and creating a collaborative and empowering culture that reaches across silos. They must also ensure that project management competencies are developed throughout the organization…
In short, I have worked on and examined projects from every point of view, and what my work has taught me is that we need a clearer, simpler, and more comprehensive approach to project management.”
The rise of Agile Project Management
Coinciding with this transition to projectised organisation is the rise of Agile project management techniques.
Agile was formally launched in 2001, when 17 technologists drafted the Agile Manifesto. They wrote four major principles for agile project management, intended to guide teams in developing better techniques and software. These changes were primarily focused on:
- Individuals and interactions over processes and tools
- Working software over comprehensive documentation
- Customer collaboration over contract negotiation
- Responding to change instead of simply following a plan
Agile project approaches are becoming increasingly used in non-software development projects because companies are seeking improvement in project performance. However, is Agile methodology alone the answer?
Project Requirements
Regardless of the implementation approach that your team takes, or the software you use internally, each project team should be required to:
- Clearly outline the purpose of their project.
- Identify the expected outcomes/benefits that would accrue as a result of the project.
- Define the performance criteria for all outcomes.
- Specify all deliverables.
- Outline all assumptions and risks.
- Detail any constraints.
- Create and implement a communication plan.
- Maintain a robust change management process.
- Report back weekly to the program manager.
In Antonio Nieto-Rodriguez’s article, he stated that:
“Agile and traditional project management aren’t at war with each other. In a change-driven world, companies can’t apply just one methodology to all their projects.”
Antonio’s comments are accurate, in that significant planning needs to be done at the commencement of the project. That way, regardless of which implementation approach is used, the expected outputs and outcomes are clearly defined.
On top of this, the implementers need to be responsible for estimating timeframes and maintaining their schedules. This ensures that project teams are aware of any impact that delays may have on the project’s schedule and any other linked projects.
Should my team consider using Agile project management methods?
It depends on you and your team! Yes, Agile approaches can be used on most projects. However, to be effective, traditional project practices should continue to be observed.
This balance will give you the best of both worlds, allowing you to prioritise the right aspects of your projects and deliver a stellar final product.
Harnessing Agile Methodology for future success
Agile project management is no magic wand, but it’s an extremely effective method to navigate the complex world of projects.
It encourages collaboration, flexibility, and customer-focused outcomes. In saying that, it’s not about choosing Agile over traditional methods, but leveraging the best of both.
Here’s to tailoring an approach that keeps your team dynamic, innovative, and ready for the constantly evolving project landscape! May your future projects surf smoothly on the Agile wave.
Need help with your project management systems?
If you’re interested in getting started and hitting the ground running, Priority Management has over 40 years of experience in time and project management training for businesses and organisations of all industries and sizes.
We regularly teach businesses how to maximise their productivity and improve their processes for consistent project success. Our courses are tailored to suit you and your staff’s needs, with a focus on your industry and objectives.
Get in contact with us today to find the best practices and methods for your business!