Agile project management is incredibly popular, but what does it actually involve and how does it differ from more traditional forms of project management? Here we look at a basic overview of agile project management for those who have never used this approach.
The agile project management was originally used to manage software development projects although it is now also used for a variety of non-IT projects too. Teams used this approach to deal with the unpredictability of software development projects and to ensure they delivered them on time and that they delivered what was expected. But it isn’t only IT projects that suffer from unpredictability and an inability to fully define what is required at the outset so other types of projects can also reap the same benefits as software projects.
The agile approach uses iterative work sequences called Sprints. Each sprint is a relatively short period assigned to a particular phase of a project.
The Sprint is complete as soon as the time allocated for it is over. Even though there might be some arguments whether that phase has been done satisfactorily, but no more work will be done in that particular sprint. Other stages continue to be worked on their time frames according to the initial plan.
The Benefits of Using an Agile Approach
• The agile method is used by leading software development professionals and firms to deal with the challenges and limitations experienced during software developments. Traditionally these challenges delayed timely completion of projects.
• This method ensures that teams remain focused on delivering a working product on time. It, therefore, reduces the risks that accompany all types of projects.
• It ensures that the project is continuously monitored and evaluated so that it continues to meet the client’s needs and expectations. It also ensures that the project can adapt to changing requirements while work is in progress.
• An agile approach means that the product is right for the market at the time of completion. That avoids a situation where a completed project is already out-dated and ends up gathering dust on the shelves. Agile projects will be completed on time and satisfy the client’s needs.
Benefits Of Learning Agile Project Management
• Provides the skills for project managers and team members to use the most relevant project management methods for their projects
• Clarifies the differences between traditional project management and agile project management styles
• Helps to actively promote a good working relationship with other stakeholders.
• Combine the traditional and agile project management to adapt to rapidly changing business environments
• Improve production times while encouraging involvement and continuous feedback from the client and other stakeholders
How Companies Can Benefit from an Agile Approach to Project Management
• Deliver projects faster but with lower risks and costs
• Improve the quality and visibility of all projects, which leads to a track record of successful delivery of projects
• A chance to adopt a tested method rather than a new company-specific method
• Achieve better communication and control over projects
• Introduce professionalism to all employees involved in company projects to enhance their reliability
