6 Project Management Methodologies for Every Project Manager

As a project manager, the first step to project success is choosing the right project management methodology for your team. The only problem attached to this is the fact that there are so many different and overlapping approaches to manage complex projects; how can you know which is best?

However, you need to have a deep understanding of each project management methodology and how much positive impact each methodology can have projects.

While there are dozens of project management methodologies, a majority of projects can be managed efficiently by following one of the six below.

Scrum

Named after rugby, scrum is a part of the agile framework and is also recognized as an interactive methodology. Based on its nature, scrum features various “sessions” sometimes defined as “sprints”, which generally last for 30 days. These sprints are used to prioritize various project tasks and ensure they are completed within the stipulated time.

While using Scrum, a small team is led by a Scrum Master whose main job it is to clear away all obstacles that can hinder effective project execution. The team works in short cycles of two weeks called “sprints,” though the team members meet daily to discuss what’s been done and where there are any roadblocks that need clearing. This methodology is usually most effective for small teams and gives room for quick development and testing.

Agile

Agile takes a significantly different approach to project management as it put forth a ground-breaking mind-set on delivering value and collaborating with customers.

Initially, this PMM was developed for projects that require significant flexibility and speed and in order to get this done, agile is composed of short delivery cycles; “sprints.” As a project management methodology, agile is highly interactive, allowing for rapid adjustments throughout a project and it is best used by self-motivated team members.

However, Agile is commonly used in software development projects in large parts because it makes it easier to identify issues quickly and to make modifications early in the development process. This system contradicts the rule of having to wait until testing is complete, before identifying a problem. Agile offers repeatable processes, reduces risk, allows for immediate feedback, provides fast turnaround and reduces complexity.

The four main values of Agile include:

• Working software over comprehensive documentation
• Responding to change over following a plan
• Customer collaboration over contract negotiation
• Individuals interactions over processes and tools

Six Sigma

The original developer of this PMM is Motorola and it was developed to eliminate waste as well as improve processes and profits. Six Sigma is a data-driven PMM and it has three essential components which include:

• DMAIC: Define – Measure – Analyse – Improve – Control
• DMADV: Define – Measure – Analyse – Design – Verify
• DFSS (Design For Six Sigma) – which can include the previous options, as well as others, such as IDOV (identify, design, optimize and verify).

Six Sigma

The original developer of this project management methodology is Motorola and it was developed to eliminate waste as well as improve processes and profits. Six Sigma is a data-driven PMM and it has three essential components which include:

• DMAIC: Define – Measure – Analyse – Improve – Control
• DMADV: Define – Measure – Analyse – Design – Verify
• DFSS (Design For Six Sigma) – which can include the previous options, as well as others, such as IDOV (identify, design, optimize and verify).

Prince2

PRINCE2 stands for Projects In Controlled Environments. This method is used by the UK (United Kingdom) government to manage major projects and it is characterized by a product-based planning approach.

In PRINCE2, high-level activities such as setting the business justification and resource allocation are owned by a structured project board while a project manager takes care of day-to-day activities, such as scheduling. This methodology gives teams greater control of resources and the ability to cushion risk effectively.

The PRINCE2 method is built on these six principles:

• Projects must have a business justification
• Teams should learn from every stage
• Roles and responsibilities are clearly defined
• Work is planned in stages
• Teams always keep a constant focus on quality
• The approach is tailored to suit each project at hand

Waterfall

This methodology has been a central cohesive source of project management for years. The system is sequential in nature and is used mostly in software development; which requires static phases that are executed in a certain order. These phases cover requirement analysis, design, testing, implementation, and maintenance.

The great part about Waterfall is that it gives room for increased control throughout each phase. On the other hand, the downside of this project management methodology is that any changes in a customer’s need or priority will disorganize the sequence of tasks. Hence, the task would be difficult to manage.

Kamban

Kanban originated from Toyota factories in the 1940s and was originally a visual system of cards. The Kamban cards were used by a department to signal that their team is ready for more raw materials; in other words, the team has more capacity to produce. The methodology, therefore, is another framework for implementing Agile and is strictly based on a team’s capacity to do work.

In recent time, this visual approach to managing a project is well-suited to work that requires steady output. Project teams usually create visual representations of tasks often using sticky notes and whiteboards. In addition, they have virtual versions of sticky notes that can be used online and they move each task through predetermined stages to view live progress and identify where barriers occur.

Asides the six project management’s methodologies above, there are about a dozen more that could suit your project execution. While adopting one, you should completely involve your team members ensure they adapt appropriately.