Agile Project Management & Value Creation for Customers

Agile project management is an approach of managing projects based on a set of principles. Unlike traditional project management styles focused on completing projects through predetermined steps, Agile emphasizes creating value for customers.

Defining “Value”

Let’s consider the term “value.” In project management, value extends beyond monetary benefits, encompassing tangible and intangible benefits perceived by customers. It’s crucial to understand the customer’s perspective on the project’s deliverables, as this defines the “value.”

Understanding “Value”

Agile project management follows the Agile Manifesto’s 4 values and 12 principles. The Manifesto states: “While there is value in the items on the right, we value the items on the left more.” This highlights what brings “more value” in project management:

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

Not all value items from the manifesto are measurable, such as “Individuals & interactions” or “Customer collaboration.” However, they significantly contribute to customer value. In simple terms, any action, big or small, that addresses a customer’s need is “value.”

For example, a general requirement gathering session will generate requirements. But with little experience, the cross functional agile teams can look beyond requirements and understand the VALUE they can create for the customer. Creating more value going beyond the stated requirements, is what creates “Customer Delight” !! That’s the whole crux of Agile project management.

Achieving “Value”

Having defined and understood “value,” let’s explore achieving it through the 12 Agile principles. These principles serve as a guide, focusing on early and continuous delivery, frequent delivery of working software, collaboration between business and developers, motivated individuals, self-organizing teams, face-to-face conversations, retrospection, simplicity, technical excellence, and maintaining a steady pace.

Conclusion

Teams that understand their customers’ “value” and adhere to these guiding principles can excel. Remember, Agile is more than a methodology; it’s a mindset aimed at delighting customers.