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

“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.