When it comes to project management, there are dozens upon dozens of approaches to select from. However, as you begin your research into which methodology is best for you, you’re likely to come across one word that appears repeatedly:
Agile.
The Agile framework was developed in the 1990s in response to project management’s traditional, rigid approach. With the publication of the Manifesto for Agile Software Development in 2001, the Agile approach was formalized.
Since then, the Agile framework has attracted a large number of supporters. It provides a nimble technique that involves cross-functional, self-organizing teams that collaborate and work with the product’s customers or end-users. In addition, agile is adaptable, iterative, and constantly on the lookout for ways to improve.
Even a less rigid, more relaxed ideology like Agile, however, requires some level of management. This is where the Agile Project Manager enters the picture. This article discusses the role, including what it is, what it entails, and how to become one.
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What Is Agile Project Management?
Agile project management is an iterative method to project management that emphasizes the breakdown of huge projects into manageable tasks that are accomplished in quick iterations throughout the project’s life cycle. As a result, agile teams can execute tasks more quickly, adapt to changing project needs, and optimize their workflow.
As the name implies, Agile enables teams to be more adaptable in terms of direction and emphasis. Software businesses and marketing agencies are acutely aware of the cyclical nature of project stakeholder changes. The Agile methodology enables teams to re-evaluate their work and make adjustments in small increments to ensure that as the work and customer landscape evolves, the team’s emphasis evolves as well.
If you’re unfamiliar with Agile project management, it may appear to be a complex and difficult-to-manage method at first glance. However, whether you are aware of it or not, you are currently doing many Agile requirements. With a few adjustments, you can achieve shorter development cycles and more frequent product releases.
What Are Agile’s Four Fundamental Values?
The Agile Manifesto defines four Core Values and twelve Guiding Principles that act as a compass for any team that adopts the Agile approach.
Agile’s four core values are as follows:
1. Individuals and their interactions take precedence over processes and instruments
Regardless of how innovative technology becomes, the human element will always play a critical part in any project management. Reliance on processes and tools to an excessive degree results in an inability to adjust to changing conditions.
2. Working software is preferred over detailed documentation
As necessary as documentation is, working software is much more critical. This principle is all about providing developers with the tools they need to complete their tasks without overburdening them.
3. Collaboration with customers before contract negotiation
Your customers are one of the most valuable assets you have. Whether they are internal or external customers, incorporating them early in the process can guarantee that the ultimate product more successfully satisfies their needs.
4. Adapting to change rather than adhering to a plan
This value represents a significant shift from standard project management practices. Historically, change was viewed as an unnecessary expense that should be avoided. The agile methodology enables continual change throughout the life of a project. Each sprint allows for review and course modification.
What Is an Agile Project Manager’s Job Description?
Agile project managers are expected to fulfill a variety of duties efficiently. These positions can be classified into three categories: team-level, enterprise-level, and hybrid Agile roles.
Team-Level Roles
- Agile project managers can play two unique responsibilities throughout the project’s lifecycle.
- As a consultant, ensure that the appropriate persons, processes, and resources are allocated to maximize team performance and efficiency.
- Assume the position of a coach, advising team members on the most efficient way to work within the project team.
Enterprise-Level Roles
- Due to the breadth of these positions, they present more substantial issues for Agile Project Managers.
- As a director, you will be responsible for managing several Agile teams and integrating their work with activities that are not within their scope.
- Assume the position of a leader and manager responsible for large, enterprise-level, complicated projects.
Hybrid Agile Roles
- The Hybrid Agile approach incorporates both Agile and non-Agile techniques, such as the Waterfall method.
- Develop a strong project management strategy that is appropriate for planning and managing the task. Filling a Hybrid Agile job is difficult, as the APM must consider both traditional and Agile methodologies.
- Attain the project’s objectives within the project’s specified constraints.
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Exploring an Agile Project Manager’s Responsibilities
It (alternatively referred to as an Agile project manager) plans, leads, organizes and motivates Agile project teams. The manager is responsible for a wide variety of tasks:
- Assisting the team in attaining a high level of performance and quality by holding teams accountable for their job, reducing impediments, and mentoring less experienced team members.
- Defining the project’s timeline and scope while maintaining a balance between timely and consistent value delivery and arranging and leading working and project status meetings.
- Delivering Agile initiatives that provide users with exceptional commercial value.
- Assisting the product owner in managing stakeholder communications, meeting customer expectations for deliverables, and establishing an effective project governance framework.
- Empower teams with team-building approaches, ensuring that each team member contributes meaningfully and is wholly involved in the project.
Additionally, the APM may be responsible for managing multiple concurrent high-profile projects. APMs are accustomed to working in a fast-paced setting that spans various business divisions.
The Distinction between a Traditional Project Manager and an Agile Project Manager
We discussed Hybrid Agile and how it incorporated both Agile and “traditional” aspects. In keeping with that premise, let us examine the methodologies of a traditional project manager and an APM.
| Traditional Project Managers | Agile Project Managers |
| Define the objective/goal | Create the vision |
| Concentrate your efforts on a specific objective | Begin the project with a broad vision in mind |
| Launch the project | Adjust and adapt in response to change |
| Assume that the aim does not change (e.g., the project does not change) | Attain the purpose gradually |
What Does PMI Say Regarding Agile Questions on the PMP Exam?
While Agile is gaining popularity, you should not anticipate too many Agile questions on the PMP test at the moment. It should be enough to read the Agile Practice Guide once to get you through the agile questions that may occur on the PMP® exam. There is no reason to go deeply into it to pass the PMP exam at this point.
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