Agile philosophy is a project management methodology that manages complicated projects by breaking them down into several phases. Each phase involves collaboration, communication, and constant improvement.
As the work begins, the development team working on the project plan executes and evaluates each phase separately, ensuring constant group collaboration.
Project managers can use these agile principles to ensure a smooth process.
Agile vs. Scrum, which project management framework is best for your business?
To answer the question, let’s discuss the Agile framework and how Scrum is relevant.
Agile Methodology:
Agile philosophy is a project management methodology that manages complicated projects by breaking them down into several phases. Each phase involves collaboration, communication, and constant improvement.
As the work begins, the development team working on the project plan executes and evaluates each phase separately, ensuring constant group collaboration.
Project managers can use these agile principles to ensure a smooth process.
Scrum Methodology:
Scrum project management framework suggests that each smaller goal starts with intensive sprint planning and ends with an evaluation process.
The days and times of these meetings are pre-decided, and all the scrum teams gather and discuss the project in these meetings.
On the sprint planning days, they plan the sprint, and on the evaluating days, they evaluate (Sprint review) how the sprint was and what improvements and modifications are required in the next sprint.
Types of Agile Project Management:
Apart from Scrum, there are other agile frameworks too, which include:
- Scrum
- Kanban
- Extreme programming (XP)
- Lean Development
- Crystal
Scrum:
Scrum is one of the most popular and most used frameworks of agile methodologies. Scrum framework contains small phases called sprints. It is usually used in developing software products and other business contexts.
In Scrum, there is a larger goal called a product goal, and these sprints (Smaller goals) bring the scrum team closer to the larger product goal.
Kanban:
The word “Kanban” literally means “Just in time.” The term has a Japanese origin, and this framework is organized or displayed on a board or a table in real-time.
The concept focuses on transparency and communication and demands real-time updates about development in every piece of work so the teams can see the developments in real time and everyone knows how much work is done on a particular project.
The concept is mostly used in software development but is also useful in other business matters like HR, marketing, and a business’s supply chain.
Extreme Programming (XP):
Software development companies from various fields and dimensions can use this concept to enhance their process and project management. Kent Beck developed the framework, and the idea is to focus on the “Simplest thing that works.”
The efforts in this framework focus on finding the smallest and simplest things that work without putting too much thought and action into the long-term product idea.
This framework focuses on feedback, simplicity, communication, etc.
Teamwork and team communication are crucial for Extreme programming because when a problem arises, all of the people, including all programmers, engineers, customers, owners, and every other related person, come together and try to solve the problem.
In this framework, teamwork is extremely important. The software being developed is tested from day one and then improved over time as the feedback pours in. This framework relies on communication, teamwork, and feedback.
Lean development:
The lean development framework was designed and implemented by Toyota, and they called it lean manufacturing. This concept was applied to software development later on.
Lean development removes any processes or parts that bring no value to the final product. Removing all of the unnecessary and nonessential functions brutally.
Lean development has seven main crucial principles, which are as follows:
- Removing unnecessary processes and things
- Quality ensured development
- Knowledge and information creation
- Differing commitments
- Speedy delivery of work
- Team Respect
- Process optimization
The framework focuses on developing simple solutions and “Minimum Viable Products” and presenting them to the customers.
The product is later on improved after the feedback from the customers.
Crystal:
Crystal is one of the most flexible frameworks. It focuses on the people working on the project rather than the processes or tools used. People have to communicate with each other bringing their methods and ideas to the table. This way, product development becomes more innovative because each individual brings unique talents, tools, and ideas.
For this to work, there must be strong communication between the people. So it can only work with good communication.
Crystal has various names depending on the number of people working in the team.
- Crystal Clear (1-9)
- Crystal yellow (10-20)
- Crystal Orange (20-50)
- Crystal Red (50-1000)
It is a light and flexible working method where the teams and people can find the best processes for them, creating flexibility and removing managerial pressures. It creates an innovative and creative environment.
Most Popular Agile Methodology:
Of all of the above-mentioned agile methodologies, Scrum is the most famous and the most used one. As explained before, Scrum process divides product development into small phases called Sprints. These sprints are started and ended by planning and evaluating meetings. Breaking down a larger project into smaller goals helps achieve the goal more efficiently and effectively. As a result, the quality and the speed of the work improve.
Importance of Picking the Right Project Management Framework
Choosing the right project management framework is crucial for the success of any project. It can make the difference between a successful project and a failed one. A project management framework provides a structure for planning, executing, and controlling projects.
Ensures Projects Meets Requirements
One of the main reasons why choosing the right project management framework is important is that it helps to ensure that the project is delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
Clear Roles
Project management frameworks help to establish clear roles and responsibilities for team members, define project goals and objectives, and provide a roadmap for achieving them.
It helps avoid confusion and misunderstandings among team members, reduces the risk of scope creep, and ensures everyone is working towards the same goals.
Team Morale
It also has a significant impact on team morale and motivation. A well-defined framework provides clarity and direction for team members, which helps keep them motivated and focused. It can also provide opportunities for team members to develop new skills and expertise, which can be rewarding and satisfying.
Build Trust and Confidence
Choosing the right project management framework can help build stakeholders’ trust and confidence. When stakeholders see that the project is being managed using a proven framework, they are more likely to have confidence in the project team and its ability to deliver the desired outcomes.
Agile Vs. Scrum Project Management :
So which one is better for your business? As you may have already understood, Scrum and Agile project management isn’t two alternatives. Agile methodology is a broader term, and Scrum is just a part. Scrum is a part of Agile methodology, just like other agile frameworks.
Traditional project management worked in different ways, but as more and more methods were formulated to manage the projects, Agile was formed.
Team Size and Structure
One of the key differences between Agile and Scrum is team size and structure. Agile is more suited for larger teams, whereas Scrum is designed for smaller teams. For example, in Agile project management, teams can consist of dozens or even hundreds of people, while in Scrum, the ideal team size is between five and nine people. In addition, agile teams can be organized into sub-teams or modules, while Scrum teams work as a single unit.
Roles and Responsibilities
Another key difference between Agile and Scrum is the roles and responsibilities of team members. Agile teams typically have a project manager or scrum master responsible for managing the team and product owners, developers, and testers. Scrum teams have more defined roles, including the product owner, Scrum Master, and development team.
Process and Planning
Agile and Scrum also differ in their approach to process and planning. Agile is a more flexible framework that allows for changes and adjustments throughout the project’s lifecycle. Scrum has a more rigid structure, with set processes and ceremonies that must be followed.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Another key difference between Agile and Scrum is their level of flexibility and adaptability. Agile project management is designed to be highly adaptable and flexible, with the ability to incorporate changes as they arise. On the other hand, Scrum is more focused on adhering to a strict set of rules and processes, which can make it less adaptable to changes in the project.
Pros and Cons of Agile and Scrum Project Management Methodologies
Agile and Scrum are popular software development and other fields of project management frameworks. However, each framework has its own set of pros and cons. In this section, we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of Agile and Scrum.
Pros of Agile Framework:
Flexibility:
Agile is designed to be flexible and adaptable, which allows teams to incorporate changes and adjustments as they arise. This flexibility is particularly useful in fast-paced environments where requirements may change frequently.
Customer Satisfaction:
Agile prioritizes customer satisfaction by involving them in the process and delivering working software quickly. This approach ensures that the end product meets the needs and expectations of the customer.
Better Quality:
Agile frameworks focus on delivering high-quality software by emphasizing continuous testing and improvement. It helps to identify and address issues early in the development process, resulting in better-quality software.
Collaborative Environment:
Agile encourages collaboration and communication among team members, which fosters a positive and productive team culture. This leads to better decision-making and more effective problem-solving.
Cons of Agile:
Lack of Structure:
Agile frameworks can be less structured than other project management frameworks, making managing larger teams or complex projects difficult.
Time-Consuming:
Agile requires significant time and resources to implement effectively, including regular meetings and constant communication among team members.
Requires Skilled Team Members:
Agile requires team members skilled in Agile practices and techniques, which can be challenging to find and retain.
Pros of Scrum:
Efficient Planning:
Scrum’s structured approach to planning and execution helps to ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This approach can be particularly useful in larger projects with more complex scopes and timelines.
Clear Roles and Responsibilities:
Scrum’s defined roles and responsibilities help clarify expectations and ensure that team members work towards the same goals. This leads to better collaboration and more effective problem-solving.
Improved Communication:
Scrum emphasizes regular meetings and communication among team members, which can lead to better communication and more positive team culture.
Faster Time to Market:
Scrum’s iterative approach to development helps deliver working software quickly, leading to faster time-to-market and competitive advantage.
Cons of Scrum:
Limited Flexibility:
Scrum’s structured approach can make it difficult to incorporate changes or adjustments during the development process. It can be a disadvantage in fast-paced environments where requirements may change frequently.
Resource-Intensive:
Scrum requires a significant amount of resources to implement effectively, including the need for regular meetings and constant communication among team members.
Challenging for Large Projects:
Scrum’s rigid structure can make managing larger teams or complicated projects challenging, which may require a more flexible framework.
Agile and Scrum both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. While Agile is more flexible and adaptable, Scrum provides a more structured approach to project management. Understanding these pros and cons is essential in selecting the right framework for your project.
So Which Framework is Best for My Business?
When choosing the best project management framework for your business, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The decision ultimately depends on the needs and goals of your business.
Here are some factors you should consider when selecting a project management framework for your business.
Project Scope and Size:
The scope and size of your project play a crucial role in determining which framework is best suited for your business. For example, agile is more suitable for large projects that require flexibility and adaptability. On the other hand, Scrum is best suited for smaller projects with a clear scope and timeline.
Team Size and Structure:
The size and structure of your team can also influence the choice of framework. For example, agile is designed for larger teams with sub-teams or modules, whereas Scrum is ideal for small teams of up to nine members. Consider the number of team members, their roles and responsibilities, and the level of collaboration required before selecting a framework.
Customer Involvement:
Agile prioritizes customer involvement throughout the development process, which ensures that the end product meets customer needs and expectations. Therefore, if customer involvement is critical for your business, Agile may be the better choice. Scrum, however, may prioritize customer involvement less, as it follows a more structured approach to project management.
Level of Structure:
Agile is a more flexible and adaptable framework, which may be suitable for businesses that value innovation and creativity. On the other hand, Scrum is a more structured framework ideal for companies that value efficiency and predictability.
Time-to-Market:
If your business is focused on fast product delivery, Agile may be the better choice, as it prioritizes the delivery of working software quickly. Scrum can also deliver immediate results, but it may not be as flexible as Agile in incorporating changes or adjustments during the process.
Resources:
Agile and Scrum require significant resources in time, money, and skilled team members. Therefore, consider the availability of resources before selecting a framework.
Conclusion
Choosing the right project management framework is critical for the success of any project. Agile and Scrum are two popular frameworks offering different project management approaches. While Agile emphasizes flexibility and adaptability, Scrum focuses on structure and predictability. Both frameworks have their pros and cons, and the decision ultimately depends on the needs and goals of your business.
By leveraging the strengths of your chosen framework and implementing best practices, you can achieve successful project outcomes and drive business growth.
