From Predictive to Agile: How to Choose the Right Project Management Methodology

By Harold Kerzner, PhD., and Cynthia Snyder Dionisio, MBA, PMP

Abstract

“From Predictive to Agile: How to Choose the Right Project Management Methodology” highlights the shift from traditional predictive project management methodologies to agile and hybrid approaches. The authors, Harold Kerzner, Ph.D., and Cynthia Snyder Dionisio, explain that project management methodologies (PMM) are frameworks comprising principles, processes, procedures, and techniques used to accomplish work. The traditional PMM, often referred to as the waterfall approach, follows a sequential process and is suitable for projects with well-defined requirements.

While a hybrid approach may seem appealing due to its combination of structure and flexibility, the decision ultimately hinges on understanding the broader stakeholder needs and the organization’s ability to be responsive to multiple frameworks.
The authors discuss the shortcomings of the waterfall approach in terms of project type, performance tracking, risk management, and governance. They point out that traditional methodologies lack flexibility and value when applied to strategic or evolutionary projects. Organizations mistakenly believed that a one-size-fits-all approach would suffice for all projects, leading to failures in managing projects with undefined or evolving scopes.

Both Dr. Kerzner and Cyndi Dionisio highlight the need for a more adaptable and hybrid approach to project management that can cater to different project types. It emphasizes the importance of considering product characteristics, such as scope stability and ease of change, along with project characteristics, such as criticality and safety. These product and project characteristics are used to tailor project approaches, lifecycles and methodologies accordingly.

In summary, this white paper highlights the significance of choosing the right development approach and tailoring the methodology to suit the project’s requirements. It recognizes the evolving landscape of project methodologies, calling for more comprehensive criteria to aid in approach selection.

About the Authors

Harold Kerznerl 400x500 1

Harold Kerzner, Ph.D

Dr. Harold Kerzner is a globally recognized expert in project, program, and portfolio management, innovation, and strategic planning, and Senior Executive Director at International Institute for Learning (IIL). For over 50 years, Dr. Kerzner has shared vital guidance for making project management a strategic tool for competitive advantage and helping companies around the world build a powerful foundation for company improvement and excellence. 

He has authored or co-authored more than 60 textbooks/workbooks on project management, including multiple editions of his seminal works. His books include Project Management: A Systems Approach to Planning, Scheduling and Controlling; Project Management Metrics, KPIs and Dashboards; Project Management Case Studies; Project Management Best Practices: Achieving Global Excellence; The Future of Project Management; Using the Project Management Maturity Model; and Innovation Project Management.

Dr. Kerzner holds an MS and Ph.D. in Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering from the University of Illinois and an MBA from Utah State University. He taught engineering at the University of Illinois and business administration at Utah State University, and for 38 years taught project management at Baldwin-Wallace University. A testament to Dr. Kerzner’s profound influence on the field is the establishment of the Kerzner International Project Manager of the Year Award. This prestigious award, presented annually by the Project Management Institute (PMI) which recognizes outstanding project managers who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and contributions to the project management profession.

Cyndi Synder Dionisio - Agile and Scrum 2023 presenter - Back by Popular Demand presentation

Cynthia Snyder Dionisio, MBA, PMP
Practice Lead for IIL’s Project, Program, and Portfolio Management (PPPM) Practice

Cyndi has over 20 years of experience leading international project teams, consulting, developing courses, and facilitating training. She has received several awards, including the
PMI Fellow Award in 2018 and PMI’s Distinguished Contribution Award in 2009. Cyndi is passionate about turning chaos in order, engaging with awesome teams, solving problems, and facilitating achievement.

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