What’s a Project?
As per Project Management Institute (PMI), the definition of a project is a “temporary effort to create value through a unique product, service or result”.
When a new project is started, the next question is, how is it going to be implemented and delivered to the end-users? End-users can be internal users or external clients. Welcome to our blog series on “How Agile is Your Project?” In this post, I’ll talk about choosing the right project management model. Stay tuned for the next installment, Chapter 2, slated for late November 2021.
Project Management
There are different tried and tested project implementation models being practiced in the industry today. While the “Waterfall” model has been around for ages, there are quite a few models that have emerged over time. The “Waterfall” model emphasizes a linear progression from the beginning to end of a project. Each step, or phase, must be completely wrapped up before the next begins. The problem with this method is that if parameters or situations change during the course of the project, it can be difficult to change gears and still reach the end-goal.
Project management model is a framework that helps the team manage the project in the best way possible. It defines a set of principles and practices that guide in organizing projects to ensure optimum and desirable performance.
One Size Doesn’t Fit All
No two companies, projects or teams are exactly the same! Projects vary in the team size, resource skillset, clients, end-users, requirement flow, delivery cadence, industry types, domains and many other factors. Hence, no one model fits all project types.
The data in the industry has proven that there are instances where many great projects have failed just because of adapting incorrect project models. What works best for one type of project could be an absolute blunder for another.
Choosing The Right Agile Project Management Model
The software industry has evolved over time and is a continuous phenomenon. In the race of early-to -market products or offerings, there is a tendency to skip the processes and protocols. Many organizations are working on repurposing and adapting different project management methodologies for various industries and tweaking them to fit specific use cases.
However, when there are more options, there can be more confusion. It is not easy to choose from different project management methodologies. So how does one know which project management method is suitable for your project and team?
Several factors will impact which project management methodologyis right for a project, team and organization. Here are some of the key considerations that can help the decision-making process:
Once these questions are answered, the appropriate project model, having minimum risks and maximum guarantee of success, can be selected.
Last but not least: No matter which methodology is chosen, the critical ingredient in the recipe of a successful project is a collaborative, flexible and committed team!
Author: Shilpa Khanchanale | [email protected]
Contact Us
Contact Withum’s team of professionals if you have any questions or concerns.
