Often used in the context of software development, an agile project management framework is a great way to make constant improvements in the strategy for all teams. It is a dynamic method that allows teams to pivot tactics as per the conditions.
If you are new in the project management space and not completely familiar with this strategy, then this blog is for you. We will dive into what agile project management is, the 4 pillars of agile management, and its 12 principles. Let’s get into it.
What is Agile Project Management?
In simple terms, agile project management is a non-linear strategy that focuses on making large projects more approachable. Projects with a big scope and complex tasks are divided into smaller, more manageable chunks under this strategy.
These chunks are completed in a cycle called sprints, where the team looks back on the work of the last sprint and make changes accordingly. As the name suggests, agile methodology focuses on supporting teams to quickly change direction and focus on issues at hand.
What are the 4 Pillars of Agile Project Management?
The Agile Manifesto developed 4 pillars of agile project management in 2001, which are focused on delivering value. These pillars are:
- Individuals and interactions over tools and processes
Individual and customer interaction should be at the center of work. Instead of always doing things in silos or strictly by the book, teams should focus on collaborations. Relying completely on processes and tools makes it difficult to change tactics.
- Working software over comprehensive documentation
While documentation is important, teams should first focus on developing a working software. It is all about giving teams the support to get their work done, instead of overworking them with documentation.
- Customer collaboration over contract negotiation
Customers are given a center stage in agile processes. Instead of having rigid product boundaries, the agile method shapes the end product as per the customers’ needs.
- Responding to change over following a plan
This is one of the biggest shifts that agile project management offers over other processes. Typically, change in a project is avoided and seen as an expense. But agile framework supports constant change as needed after reviewing each sprint. This way, teams get the flexibility to course correct without derailing their project.
12 Agile Principles of Project Management
The agile manifesto team derived 12 principles from the 4 values of agile project management. These principles can be effortlessly adapted to any team, as per their project needs. Let’s look at them below:
- Customer satisfaction is the team’s highest priority via early and continuous improvement and value delivery
- Changing requirements are always welcome, even in late-stage project development
- Up the delivery frequency on value
- Team members should work in collaboration and break silos
- Build the project around motivated individuals
- Convey information face-to-face for maximum effectiveness
- A working software is the primary measure of your progress
- Sustainability should be at the center of agile processes
- Constant excellence increases agility
- Simplicity in projects is paramount
- Self-organizing teams offer maximum value
- Regular reflection and adjustment boost effectiveness
Wrapping Up
While popular among software development teams, agile project management can be adopted by any team including marketing, sales, product, finance, and HR. It is a method to provide flexibility to teams and amplify what works.
If you want to make the most out of your agile structure, use a work management tool like 5day.io, that lets you break down your processes to the smallest level. It’s time to make your work more easy, more human.
