Striking a Balance: Navigating Project Management in a Time-Critical Landscape
“Be stubborn on vision but flexible on details”
Jeff Bezos, CEO Amazon
The increasing number and speed of product launches, along with the changing nature of product information updates, can create escalating challenges for traditional project management methods. In the automotive industry, for example, over-the-air (OTA) updates can swiftly introduce significant upgrades, presenting a formidable challenge for frontline staff tasked with staying abreast of these changes. The ongoing shifts in product information not only strain project management processes but also pose a significant obstacle to delivering on time. Giving Teams the complex task of adapting quickly to these rapid and impactful modifications to effectively meet customer expectations.
In navigating the project management terrain, it is imperative to carefully consider and select the appropriate method—be it Agile or Waterfall—based on the unique demands of the project. This strategic decision ensures that the chosen methodology aligns seamlessly with the project's nature and objectives, optimising efficiency, and success in the ever-evolving landscape of product development and delivery.
It's worth noting that the sequential and linear structure of Waterfall may face challenges in keeping up with the rapid delivery of products and services to the market. In contrast, the Agile project management framework has emerged as a cornerstone, ensuring timely and budget-conscious completion of fast-turnaround projects. This positions it as a better choice for a broader spectrum of projects.
The Agile method is underpinned by several key principles:
The customer or product owner is involved throughout the project lifecycle
Stages of the project can be worked on simultaneously
Changes can be implemented while the project is still evolving
Further updates can be made to a live product because the content is iterative and delivered on a ‘need to know’ basis
Only filling the project with information that is needed at a specific point is essential. The Agile framework facilitates this by using a MoSCoW framework, which separates out the Must Have’s, Should Have’s, and Could Have’s. Using this approach ensures the most crucial elements are prioritised and helps to deliver the core project faster. Key messages are considered first, with further content added as it is required.
When it comes to internal project management, Agile not only changes how teams are formed but also transforms the handling of progress planning – making it simultaneous.
Key terminology:
Squads: These are typically assembled for more substantial projects, comprising multidisciplinary individuals collaborating on project delivery.
Scrum Methodology: This is foundational to the Agile framework and emphasises incremental development through dedicated time periods.
Scrum Master: This person acts as a facilitator rather than a traditional manager, focusing on ensuring effective and prompt information exchange among team members.
Sprints: These defined intervals ensure the completion of a set amount of work or development, creating clear milestones for timely content delivery.
Kanban visualisation boards: The utilisation of these is another integral aspect of the Agile approach, fostering clarity and a collective understanding of the project's trajectory. Information from the Project Backlog is visually organised on the Kanban Board, categorising tasks into sections such as 'to-do,' 'in progress,' and 'done.'
Daily Stand-Up meetings: These serve as succinct and focused interactions among team members, ensuring everyone comprehends their tasks and deadlines. Discussion of constraints, risks, or concerns takes place to identify and address outstanding issues as early as possible.
“Our ability to adapt is amazing. Our ability to change isn’t quite as spectacular”
Lisa Lutz, author of ‘The Passenger’
Agile, like any methodology, comes with its advantages and disadvantages. While it proves highly beneficial for product owners facing tight deadlines and rapid delivery requirements, the challenge lies in the continuous demand for adaptation. It is therefore important to thoroughly comprehend this and embrace it before adopting an Agile approach.
Beyond mere project efficiencies, ensuring that individuals within teams are not only aware of the impending shift but also fully onboard with working differently, is a key factor. Providing necessary support during this transition is crucial to foster the continued value of the team’s talents and maintain high job satisfaction. It's important to ask yourself: Is your team prepared for what lies ahead? Do they grasp the imperative for a different approach, and, more importantly, do they perceive themselves as part of the solution rather than the problem?
Striking the right chord in project management style is a nuanced task. Essential components include a nuanced understanding of client needs, a strategic tool selection, and the implementation of a tailored, strategic approach to project management. At PHM, our commitment lies in aligning with your unique working methods and adapting to the most efficient project management style. We are dedicated to utilising the most fitting tools, customised to the specific demands of each project while acknowledging the inherent versatility in various project management approaches.