Agile project management, already widely used for software development, is increasingly recognised as having much more general application. Continuous improvement programmes, business change projects, new technology development, research and development and a variety of other scenarios characterised by rapid change and high uncertainty can all benefit from an Agile approach. This programme presents the concepts and methods of Agile project management, and shows how to apply them to a range of project and change management situations.
Participants will learn:
how Agile project management can help with project and change management
the 4 values and 12 principles of the Agile 'manifesto' and the range of Agile methodologies
how to apply Agile project management methods and techniques in a range of project scenarios
alternative Agile project management methods and how they can be applied and adapted
what makes Agile project teams succeed
the key roles and responsibilities needed to enable Agile project teams to work effectively
how to encourage an Agile mindset within their organisation and how to move toward an Agile approach to managing projects
1 Introduction to Agile project management
Overview of 'classical' project management and methodologies
The link between project success and management performance
Limitations of classical approaches and the need for Agile methods
The 4 values and 12 principles of the Agile manifesto explained
Agile project management values:Individuals and interactions over processes and toolsWorking outputs over comprehensive documentationCustomer collaboration over contract negotiationResponding to change over following a plan
The cultural challenges of using Agile project management
Choosing when and how to adopt Agile project management
2 Initiating a project using Agile project management
Some key Agile methodologies explained: SCRUM, XP, Crystal
Identifying and engaging project stakeholders; defining roles and responsibilities
Setting the project vision and goals; defining project scope
The Agile approach to requirements capture and elicitation of needs
Tools and techniques for capturing and characterising requirements
The role of documentation, reporting and process management
3 The Agile approach to definition and planning
Understanding Agile planning; the 'planning onion' concept
Developing the culture needed for collaborative involvement and iterative planning
Defining project deliverables; the 'product backlog' concept
Tools and techniques for defining and prioritising requirements in Agile projects
Understanding and applying Agile estimating techniques
Dealing with uncertainty and managing risks
4 The Agile approach to execution and delivery
The results orientated, fast adapting culture of Agile teams
The monthly 'Sprint' process for project planning and review
The disciplines needed for effective daily SCRUM meetings
Reviewing progress, managing change and project reporting
Testing, completing and handing over of work packages
Managing the interface between the project team and the business
5 Leadership and teamwork in Agile project teams
Why Agile teams are different: the importance of individuals and interactions
The skills and attributes needed to lead an Agile project team
The challenges faced and skills needed by Agile team members
Recognising team development needs; adopting the right leadership style
Making the transition from project manager to Agile coach
Key coaching skills explored: mentoring, facilitating, managing conflict