What You Need to Know about Agile in Project Management

If you aspire to become a project manager, one of the skill requirements you need to possess for this job is Agile. Simply put, Agile is a project management approach that emphasizes short time periods, adaptability, and iteration. Though it was originally designed for software development, the Agile method is now widely utilized in the implementation and operation of many different sorts of projects as well as the management of the company. To better prepare yourself for becoming a project manager, here is what you need to know about Agile in project management. 

History of Agile

In 2001, a group of software engineers came together to discuss the key ideas of agile and to go deeper into the philosophy driving it. They created The Manifesto for Agile Software Development, a set of beliefs and principles that would serve as a guidepost for teams asking how to become agile. The development of Agile continued until it became settled as to how it is practiced nowadays. Agile project management is an iterative approach to software development projects that helps to ensure input is immediately acted upon and responsive changes are made at each level of a product cycle. 

Frameworks

At first, Agile is not regarded as a methodology since it does not specify which tools and procedures should be employed. Rather, it is a catch-all term for a wide range of management approaches. Scrum, Kanban, and Extreme Programming (XP) are examples of Agile practices. Traditional agile project management frameworks are divided into two types: scrum and kanban. While scrum emphasizes fixed-length project iterations, kanban emphasizes continuous releases. When one task is completed, the team goes on to the next. 

There are several Agile approaches and frameworks, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Some are mixtures of different approaches. Frameworks that are popular are: 

• Scrum 
• Kanban 
• Lean Crystal Extreme Programming (XP) 
• Feature-Driven Development (FDD) 
• Domain-Driven Design (DDD) 
• Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM) 
• ScrumBan 
• Agile-Waterfall/Hybrid Agile and 
• Scrum XP Hybrid. 

Scrum is by far the most popular Agile approach; according to Digital.ai, 58% of Agile adopters utilize Scrum.

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Benefits of Agile

Agile project management approaches have enabled teams of all sizes to work more iteratively and flexibly, allowing them to adapt to changing project needs and deliver more quickly. Although not foolproof, there are considerable advantages of Agile, and here are some of them:

Creates Better Team Dynamic

Agile teams are more self-sufficient. Team members are given more flexibility to propose new ideas, develop solutions, and solve problems, which is sometimes absent in standard project management approaches. The emphasis on cooperation and communication can aid in the development of more transparent, efficient, and innovative teams.

Less Risk, More Adaptability

One significant advantage of agile approaches is the ability to handle shifting priorities. With agile's iterative approach and emphasis on continuous feedback, you can obtain the data that is needed during the development process rather than afterward. This allows the team to make more effective decisions based on real rather than predicted conditions. Teams can increase project predictability and risk with specified short sprint cycles, improved project visibility, and regular reporting updates.

Ensures Client Satisfaction

The Agile project management approach places the client first and helps your team to collaborate closely with them as well as other stakeholders to guarantee the team is building something that really solves the client's problem. Since Agile projects include regular testing and evaluation with each sprint, you can obtain real-time feedback with each revision of your working product.

Drawbacks of Agile

As Agile is built on the notion that teams will not know what their end product will look like from day one, predicting efforts such as cost, time, and resources necessary at the start of a project is challenging. Since Agile is delivered in segments, measuring progress demands a look across cycles. Due to its "see-as-you-go" nature of the project, it is also challenging to establish many KPIs at the outset. To overcome the shortcomings of Agile approach, a more lean approach is needed, stressing the significance of creating value through a quality end product rather than merely delivering a workable product. Managers must also oversee a defined method for delivering that product, rather than an unclear path decided along the way.

Who Needs Agile

Agile grew from the thoughts of a group of project managers for software development. It has remained popular in software development since then, but it has also extended to many other sectors. Finance, information technology, business, fashion, biotechnology, and even construction are among them. Agile is better suited for ongoing projects and projects where specific specifics are uncertain at the beginning. That is, if a project lacks defined constraints, timetables, or resources, it is a strong fit for an Agile approach.

Agile Certification

An Agile certification proves your mastery of Agile concepts and informs employers that you've put in the effort to study and get a certification. Agile certifications may advance your project management career by positioning you as an Agile specialist, supporting you in bringing Agile practices into your company, and empowering cross-functional collaborations. PMI-Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP), ICAgile Certified Professional (ICP), and AgilePM Foundation (APMG) are examples of common Agile credentials.

Closing 

Whether you are a beginner who is planning to take Agile certifications or a professional project manager with an Agile certification-ready, a bright career is waiting for you. Talentvis provides a range of prestigious project manager jobs that require Agile mastery as one of the requirements. Deposit your resume and elevate your career in project management right away with us!

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