Can every project be managed and monitored using the same approach? Certainly not.
Every project, its scope, and objectives are unique. The strategies that work for a marketing campaign won’t necessarily apply to a software development project. Thus, the right approach depends on the project’s requirements, team structure, and organizational goals. To address this diversity, numerous project management methodologies have emerged over the years.
The project management methodologies serve different purposes, but minimizing efforts and making the delivery process more effective forms the crux for each one. Some methods are best suited for iterative projects like app development, while others work better in industries requiring rigid planning and documentation, such as construction.
Understanding the strengths and limitations of these project management frameworks is crucial to making an informed choice that aligns with your team’s needs and project goals.
This article is a comprehensive guide explaining the nuances of different project management methodologies and which projects and resources they cater to.
But before that, let’s get the definition clear.
What Are Project Management Methodologies?
Project management methodologies are a culmination of different practices, principles, processes, and techniques managers use to ensure optimum project performance. These methodologies standardize processes and organize teams to maximize efficiency. It also provides guidelines for effective risk management and helps establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to track project progress.
According to PMI, ‘A methodology is a system of practices, techniques, procedures, and rules used by those who work in a discipline.’
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Now that we understand the definition, let’s learn about the various project management methodologies.
Types of Project Management Methodology with Example
Choosing the right methodology ensures smoother workflows, better collaboration, and successful project outcomes. However, to do that, we must first understand the attributes and benefits of each framework. Enlisted below are the most widely used project management methodologies.
Waterfall
The waterfall is the most straightforward and linear approach used for project management. In this methodology, the project phases and tasks are accomplished sequentially. It implies that if the project’s first phase isn’t over, the consecutive phase will not begin. As a result, the waterfall method offers limited room for changes and alterations. This method is ideally used in projects that follow a definitive pathway and do not demand ad hoc changes.
For example, a construction firm developing a commercial office building follows the waterfall methodology due to its sequential approach. The project begins with requirements gathering, followed by architectural design. Once the foundation work is completed, the team builds office space, interior work, and finishing. After final inspections and quality checks, the project is handed over to the client.
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Critical Path Method
The critical path method (CPM) allows managers to evaluate each task’s timeline and project interdependencies based on which they select the most critical tasks of the project. It enables them to form a definite project roadmap and allocate resources with the required skills to critical tasks without overwhelming their schedule. This method can be implemented in small or large-scale projects that operate in resource-constrained environments.
For instance, a factory producing a new smartphone model applies CPM to meet tight deadlines. For this, the project manager first identifies the critical chain path by mapping tasks such as design finalization, component sourcing, assembly, software integration, and quality testing. They then prioritize tasks on a critical path to ensure the project meets the stipulated deadline.
Agile
The agile method is an incremental and iterative process that allows quick changes during the development process. It also enables constant collaboration with clients to ensure they are on the same page. Moreover, managers can implement agile methodology when the project’s scope is unknown because it provides the liberty to develop short work cycles.
For instance, an IT firm developing a mobile banking application follows the Agile methodology to ensure continuous improvement. The project manager collaborates with stakeholders to define high-level goals and deliver the work in iterative sprints. Each sprint includes development, testing, and feedback collection, allowing for feature upgrades and improvements based on user input.
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Kanban
Kanban is an agile project management methodology built on the foundation of lean principles and focuses on maximizing process efficiency. It is an evolutionary approach that visualizes the project on a ‘Kanban’ or whiteboard. The core of Kanban is to limit the work in progress so that the team is not focusing on too many things at once, helping them prioritize better. It is well-suited for projects or work that require steady output.
For instance, a customer support team uses a Kanban board with columns like “To Do,” “In Progress,” and “Resolved” to track ticket status and ensure smooth operations. Furthermore, team members pull tasks from the “To Do” column based on capacity, maintaining a steady workflow. Additionally, regular reviews help identify bottlenecks like high ticket volume and insufficient resources, enabling teams to refine processes.
Scrum
Scrum is another project management framework that falls under the broad umbrella of Agile. Initially built for IT projects, this approach emphasizes the development of a complex product in short cycles and enables reviews at regular intervals called ‘sprints.’ These sprints are held in a span of one or two weeks. This method works well when you have a small team of 7-9 members or a complex product that requires regular reviews and testing.
For example, a firm launching a new product uses Scrum for its marketing campaign. The Product Owner defines campaign goals, social media strategy, and ad placements. While the Scrum Master facilitates collaboration and removes obstacles. Meanwhile, the team works in 2-week sprints, delivering blog posts, email sequences, and social media creatives. In the end, changes are made according to stakeholders’ inputs.
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Six Sigma
Six Sigma is a structured, data-driven methodology focused on improving processes by reducing defects and variability. It follows a systematic approach using the DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) framework to identify and resolve inefficiencies. Moreover, it relies on statistical analysis and process optimization to reduce errors and ensure consistent quality. This method is well-suited for projects where consistent quality and reducing errors are critical goals.
For example, an automobile manufacturer applies Six Sigma to enhance vehicle assembly quality and minimize defects. Utilizing the DMAIC framework, they identify bottlenecks in the production line and implement proactive measures to resolve them. This results in faster assembly times and improved product reliability. As a result, the company reduces costs, enhances production, and boosts customer satisfaction.
Critical Chain Project Management
Critical chain management (CCM) is a project management methodology that optimizes the project’s timeline by addressing resource constraints and uncertainties. It builds upon the traditional critical path method (CPM) by considering resource availability and incorporating buffers to manage uncertainties. This approach works well for projects with frequent changes, resource constraints, or unpredictable delays.
For example, an audit & accounting firm uses CCPM to conduct a financial year-end audit for a multinational corporation. The critical chain includes tasks like data collection, financial statement analysis, risk assessment, and final report preparation. In this case, auditors focus on one task at a time, minimizing multitasking and ensuring the smooth progress of priority tasks.
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Adaptive Project Framework (APF)
The adaptive project framework (APF) is a flexible approach for projects with uncertain or evolving requirements. It focuses on iterative planning and execution, allowing teams to adapt to changes and refine goals as the project progresses. This methodology ensures continuous alignment with changing business and stakeholder needs. The APF method is used for projects that focus on delivering smaller, incremental work.
For example, a tech startup uses an adaptive project framework (APF) to develop a personalized fitness app. In the first cycle, they create a minimal viable product (MVP) featuring a workout tracker and calorie counter. After gathering user feedback, they shifted focus to integrating wearable devices instead of the planned goal-setting feature. Moreover, with each iteration, they modify the app to accommodate user needs.
PMI’s PMBOK
PMI’s PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge) is a framework that outlines a set of best practices, processes, and guidelines for project management. This framework focuses on implementing the five phases to manage a project from start to finish- project initiation, planning, execution, performance, and closure. PMBOK enables teams to adapt processes based on the complexity and needs of their specific projects.
An example of PMI’s PMBOK in a legal setting is managing a large-scale litigation case. The legal project manager applies PMBOK principles to define the project scope and plan tasks like document review and witness preparation. Then, the legal team performs research and prepares arguments. Next, the manager tracks progress, ensures compliance with legal deadlines, and documents the final court ruling.
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Rapid Application Development (RAD)
Rapid application development (RAD) emphasizes flexibility and iterative cycles. It is primarily used in software development to create high-quality applications. This methodology minimizes project planning time and maximizes development efforts, making it ideal for fast-paced projects. Moreover, it enables quick adjustments with the frequent collaboration of developers, designers, and stakeholders.
For instance, in the development of an e-commerce platform, the RAD method is used to accelerate delivery. The development team rapidly builds functional prototypes and gathers user feedback. Then, they iteratively refine UI/UX and integrate new features based on the user input. Thus, this agile, user-driven approach ensures the creation of a high-quality, market-ready e-commerce app within a short timeframe.
Extreme Programming
Extreme programming (XP) is an agile methodology emphasizing continuous feedback, iterative development, and cross-collaboration between developers and stakeholders. XP focuses on delivering high-quality software through practices like pair programming, test-driven development, and frequent releases.
For instance, a tech company developing a real-time collaboration platform uses the XP method to ensure high-quality software delivery. The team follows a short development cycle, continuously tests new features, and incorporates user feedback. Additionally, they provide a high standard of code quality through practices like pair programming and test-driven development.
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New Product Introduction (NPI)
New product introduction (NPI) is a structured approach for transitioning new products from concept to market. It integrates design, development, and manufacturing phases, ensuring the product meets quality standards, cost objectives, and market requirements. Additionally, NPI focuses on cross-functional collaboration to streamline the launch process.
For example, NPI is used in the consumer electronics industry to launch a new smartphone. The process involves cross-functional collaboration across design, engineering, and marketing teams to ensure the product is developed efficiently. Moreover, it ensures that the smartphone meets quality benchmarks, aligns with customer expectations, and is successfully introduced to the market.
Integrated Project Delivery (IPD)
Integrated project delivery (IPD) is a collaborative project management methodology primarily used in the construction industry. It joins key parties involved in a project’s design, fabrication, and construction aspects under a single agreement. Additionally, IPD emphasizes early collaboration of stakeholders to align objectives and open communication to reduce inefficiencies.
For instance, IPD is applied in a hospital construction project to ensure seamless collaboration among architects, engineers, contractors, and healthcare administrators from the project’s inception. This ensures that designs, project budgets, and timelines are aligned. The outcome of this integrated approach is minimum design conflicts, controlled costs, and timely project delivery.
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Lean Methodology
Lean methodology focuses on eliminating three types of waste (3Ms) – Mudra (wastefulness), which includes activities that consume resources without adding value; Mura (unevenness), which covers inefficiencies caused by overproduction; and lastly Muri(overburden), when there is too much strain on resources. In this method, project managers prevent these three Ms to minimize waste, better execute projects, and streamline processes.
For example, a manufacturing company uses the lean methodology to produce eco-friendly water bottles by prioritizing durability and affordability. They eliminate waste by optimizing material usage, streamlining production processes, and reducing downtime. Furthermore, prototypes are developed and tested in small batches instead of mass production, allowing quick adjustments based on customer feedback.
Now that we have understood the various project management methodologies, let’s move on to the criteria for choosing one.
How to Choose the Right Project Management Methodology?
While choosing a project management methodology, it is essential to run through specific parameters to ensure they align with your business goals.
Below are some factors to consider before making a strategic choice.
Project Complexity and Size
A project can be labeled as simple or complex based on its size, intricacy, and other constraints (including risk and potential changes). For example, large and multifaceted projects benefit from structured approaches like the waterfall method. Meanwhile, agile methodology can be followed for projects that are dynamic in nature and demand adaptability.
Project Goals and Budget
Project budget and goals must also be considered when choosing a methodology. For this, managers should start by clearly defining what the project is supposed to deliver and estimating the financial costs that come along with it. Moreover, projects with fixed budgets can be executed using traditional approaches like waterfall and CPM. On the other hand, projects with flexible budgets can leverage iterative models, such as agile or scrum.
Industry and Project Types
The choice of a project management methodology heavily relies on the nature of the industry and the project type. Manufacturing or construction projects require more streamlined and sequential approaches. At the same time, IT-related projects can opt more for iterative and adaptive methodologies that allow frequent adjustments and stakeholder feedback.
Team Size and Expertise
Team size and expertise are also critical factors to be considered when choosing the right project management methodology. For example, you can select an agile or scrum model for small or cross-functional teams. On the other hand, for teams with specialized resources (e.g., architects or IT engineers), a structured approach like PMI’s PMBOK or Critical Chain Project Management (CCPM) is more appropriate.
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Adaptability and Flexibility Needs
When choosing the most suitable methodology, it is vital to evaluate a project’s adaptability and flexibility needs. Agile approaches, like Scrum or Kanban, allow frequent reassessments and adjustments, which makes them suitable for dynamic projects. Conversely, structured methodologies like waterfall are best suited for projects with well-defined scope, milestones, and deliverables, such as construction or manufacturing.
Project Timeline
The project timeline significantly influences the choice of methodology. For shorter timelines, iterative project management methodologies like agile are more suitable, allowing quicker deliverables and continuous improvements. On the other hand, structured approaches such as Waterfall are better suited for projects with longer timelines and clearly defined phases. They ensure thorough project planning, organized execution, and better control.
Alignment With Organizational Goals
Project management methodologies must align with organizational goals, processes, and strategic priorities. For instance, innovation-driven startups can utilize project management methodologies like lean or agile for flexibility. While high-regulated industries such as healthcare or audit & accounting require structured frameworks like PMI’s PMBOK. Moreover, manufacturing industries that emphasize efficiency and quality may prefer Six Sigma.
Stakeholder Involvement and Expectations
Another essential criterion to be considered is the expectation and involvement of project stakeholders. When stakeholders need to provide continuous input, feedback, or approvals, methodologies like Agile or Scrum are more suitable because they emphasize regular review cycles. Meanwhile, traditional project management methodologies like Waterfall are ideal if stakeholders have clear, fixed expectations and prefer limited engagement after the initial planning phase.
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Conclusion
A clear understanding of different project management methodologies is essential for selecting the one that aligns best with your project’s goals, industry requirements, and team dynamics. By carefully evaluating factors like project complexity, review cycles, timelines, and stakeholder involvement, you can choose a methodology that enhances efficiency, collaboration, and overall project success.
So, which project management methodology is best suited for your projects?
The Glossary
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