Agile Project Management

Overview:

Introduction:

Agile project management, widely used for software development, is increasingly recognized as having much more general application. This training program will present the concepts and methods of Agile project management generically, and show how to apply them to a range of project and change management situations.

Program Objectives:

At the end of this program the participants will be able to:

• Understand the principles and methodologies of Agile project management and when to apply them.

• Initiate Agile projects by defining vision, goals, and stakeholder roles effectively.

• Plan Agile projects using collaborative techniques and prioritize deliverables to address uncertainties and risks.

• Execute and deliver Agile projects through iterative processes, adaptive team practices, and effective progress reviews.

• Lead Agile project teams by fostering collaboration, addressing team dynamics, and adopting coaching leadership styles.

Targeted Audience:

• Project Managers seeking to adopt Agile methodologies.

• Team Leaders and Supervisors involved in project delivery.

• Professionals transitioning from traditional to Agile project management.

• Scrum Masters and Agile Coaches looking to enhance their skills.

• Stakeholders and team members working within Agile environments.

Program Outlines:

Unit 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.

• The cultural challenges of using Agile project management.

• Choosing when and how to adopt Agile project management.

Unit 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 characterizing requirements.

• The role of documentation, reporting, and process management.

Unit 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 prioritizing requirements in Agile projects.

• Understanding and applying Agile estimating techniques.

• Dealing with uncertainty and managing risks.

Unit 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

• How to manage the interface between the project team and the business.

Unit 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.

• Recognizing team development needs; adopting the right leadership style.

• Making the transition from project manager to an Agile coach.

• Key coaching skills explored: mentoring, facilitating, managing conflict.