Project managers have plenty of responsibilities that they have to take on. Knowing some of the project management methodologies can be handy in this scenario.
However, there are so many methodologies to choose from that it can get overwhelming at times, no matter how experienced you might be. So, this article will cover the 9 best project management methodologies that every project manager must have a basic idea of.
1. Waterfall Methodology
The first and most common methodology we have for you is the waterfall methodology. It is common because it is a traditional one that companies have been using for a long time. This methodology follows a linear sequence of stages to reach the project completion stage. You must complete one stage before a new one begins. Here are the stages of the project management methodology in chronological order:
- Requirements
- Analysis
- Design
- Construction
- Testing
- Deployment and maintenance
Like a waterfall, the progress of this methodology flows smoothly from one stage to another. However, things can also go wrong very easily as there remains great scope for errors. Just as you cannot swim against a waterfall, you cannot return to the previous stage of this methodology even if an error is spotted. If the end goal of the project is clearly defined, this can prove to be one of the best project management methodologies but do proceed with caution.
2. Agile Methodology
Over time there were a lot of flaws that project managers started noticing in the waterfall methodology. This dissatisfaction led to the creation of a new one- the agile methodology. This method came into existence when there was a need for a kind of methodology where one could go back a step to correct errors, if any.
The agile project management methodology is quick, collaborative, and open to change, driven primarily by data. This process involves work that is phased out and conducted over some time with frequent reassessments to avoid errors. Backlogs are assigned to project members, and the project manager has to simply keep track.
3. Scrum Methodology
Another one on the list of the best project management methodologies is the scrum methodology, a form of agile project management. This is like a framework where the work is divided into cycles of 1-2 weeks, and these short cycles are known as sprints. A backlog is created, and the team members are required to follow it to learn about their work.
There is a scrum master assigned to small teams for the cycles. Once the cycle ends, the work is reviewed, assessed, and passed on to the next cycle. If you are striving for constant improvement, you must try this method. This has proven to be an efficient project management methodology over the years.
4. Kanban Methodology
Within agile project management methodology, there is yet another one- the kanban methodology. This is how it proceeds- there is a kanban board on which the various tasks are visually represented. Then, as per the team’s capacity, tasks are selected from the backlog and completed. There are columns on the kanban board, and each of these columns represents one stage. Once the tasks on a column are completed and reviewed, it is time to move to the next stage.
5. Scrumban Methodology
Imagine if scrum and kanban had a baby. That is what the scrumban methodology is— a combination of the two. It takes the best of both worlds and delivers results efficiently. It takes from the Kanban methodology, the method of pulling tasks from the backlog as per the team’s capacity. It also takes the concept of sprint cycles from the scrum methodology. As a result, you can maintain a continuous flow of work with the two project management methodologies combined.
6. eXtreme Programming (XP) Methodology
Once again, a sub-methodology under agile, the XP methodology, has been specifically designed for software development. This methodology emphasizes teamwork between a series of people, including managers, developers, and customers. The teams must follow a definite set of rules and regulations based on five important values- face-to-face communication, simplicity, feedback, courage, and respect.
If you are looking for a project management methodology that caters to a small team, we suggest the XP methodology.
7. Adaptive Project Framework (APF) Methodology
The core principle behind the APF methodology is that a change of mind in project management is inevitable, and hence, there should be a model that caters to it. Even some of the best planned and executed projects can have flaws and errors. Once spotted, this methodology allows you to rectify the errors quickly.
Moving forward, teams must expect the worst and take necessary risks because there is a chance of going back a few steps. Teams must also be ready to constantly review and re-evaluate the results to minimize errors as much as possible. The process requires a lot of proper communication between all the stakeholders of the particular project.
8. Lean Methodology
Originating from the Toyota Production System, the lean methodology is based on lean principles to reduce waste and maximize value. It not only aims at minimizing the physical waste but also wasteful practices that lead to waste of company resources and time. These wasteful practices are mentioned below.
- Muda (wastefulness) leads to a lot of usage of resources but without much value for the customer.
- Mura (unevenness) occurs when too much attention is paid to one section while the others remain negated. This leads to the waste of resources once again and no fruitful results.
- Muri (overburden) occurs when too much pressure is created on resources like people and equipment, leading to a complete breakdown of management.
These wasteful practices can be significantly minimized with the lean project management methodology.
9. Critical Path Methodology
The last one on this list of best project management methodologies is the critical path methodology that allows team members to schedule tasks as per the degree of importance. All you have to do is identify the tasks you need to complete to achieve specific goals. Then you have to get a rough estimate of how much time might be required for each task and finally, use the information to create the critical path. You can set milestones, and once you achieve those, you will be closer to your goal.
Conclusion
Project management methodologies are a beneficial system to ensure that the team easily handles all the tasks at hand. It is a perfect way for project managers to control and supervise the team. This not only saves time but also ensures maximum production in every industry. But, of course, you can always use Cleverly, Clovine to manage all the tasks efficiently.
We hope this article has succeeded in informing you about the various project management methodologies available.
