Agile................

 

Fatimah AbbouchiFatimah Abbouchi• Following• FollowingAustralia PMO Influencer of the Year | LinkedIn AUS Top 100 Profile | Adaptive Governance Specialist | Co-Founder The PMO Leader | University Lecturer | Agile Ideas Host | Writer | Speaker | Founder & CEO AMOAustralia PMO Influencer of the Year | LinkedIn AUS Top 100 Profile | Adaptive Governance Specialist | Co-Founder The PMO Leader | University Lecturer | Agile Ideas Host | Writer | Speaker | Founder & CEO AMO

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People everywhere dismissing the role of a 'Project Manager'. Not only have I seen posts about it but even attended an event discussing Agile, where it was said you aren't 'Agile' if you have Project Managers in place... Why? Because it doesn't fit in an 'agile' box (depending on the agile-based methodology) you are choosing.

In the realm of agile-based methodologies, the presence of project managers (in title) might seem like an anomaly. After all, agile promotes self-organizing teams and emphasizes collaboration over hierarchy, with the rise of roles like Scrum Master, Product Owner and so on.

However, the reality is that the skills and capabilities traditionally associated with project managers are still incredibly valuable in agile environments, even if the role title disappears or evolves.

Consider some of the most popular agile-based methodologies:

1. Scrum: While Scrum doesn't have a traditional project manager role, the Scrum Master serves a similar function. They facilitate the Scrum process, remove impediments, and ensure the team stays on track. In essence, they embody many aspects (not necessarily all) of project management, albeit under a different name.

2. Kanban: Although Kanban doesn't explicitly designate a project manager role, organizations often appoint a Kanban Manager or Flow Manager. These individuals oversee the Kanban process, optimize workflow, and address any bottlenecks that may arise. Their responsibilities closely align with those of a project manager, despite the absence of the title.

3. Extreme Programming (XP): XP embraces the role of a Coach or XP Manager. Like a project manager, they provide guidance, facilitate communication, and remove obstacles to the team's progress. Their focus on supporting the team's effectiveness echoes the core responsibilities of a project manager.

4. Lean Startup: In Lean Startup methodologies, the Product Manager or Product Owner plays a pivotal role in guiding the development and delivery of products or services. They manage stakeholders, prioritize features based on customer feedback, and oversee the project's direction—functions reminiscent of traditional project management.

While the titles may vary across agile-based methodologies, the essence remains the same: individuals fulfilling roles akin to project managers are integral to the success of agile projects. The expertise in planning, coordination, communication, and problem-solving that project managers bring to the table is invaluable in navigating the complexities of agile environments.

The adoption of agile-based methodologies doesn't negate the need for project management skills; rather, it reshapes and redistributes them across different roles. Whether it's facilitating teamwork, optimizing processes, or ensuring project success, the influence of project management endures in an agile landscape, proving its relevance in an ever-evolving professional landscape. Even if under a different name. Let's be adaptive!