Why versatility ?
Bad Scrum implementation
47% of agile projects are late, have budget overruns, or result in unhappy customers and on top of this a further 11% of agile projects fail outright and end up delivering nothing (Scrum, 2021).
Jeff Sutherland, the Scrum legend, claims “most of these failures are down to bad Scrum implementation” . The bottom line with any methodology is that it should be chosen based on its fit with your organisation, your people and your projects.
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Lack of experience
There are scrum masters, agile coaches, product owners and other agile practitioners in the projects who often face challenges when their skillset lacks depth in project management expertise. This situation gets worse when too much attention is given to strictly following a specific set of rules, like in Scrum, instead of really understanding the basic ideas behind these rules and changing them to fit the special needs of the project or the company.
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Experience and versatility
There's a need to be versatile, equipped with a toolkit of methodologies. There should be the capability to analyze the specific needs and constraints of each project and select the most appropriate management style. This might mean employing a traditional approach for well-defined, low-uncertainty projects, an Agile approach for projects requiring flexibility and rapid iteration, or a combination of both depending on the project's evolving needs.
The key lies in understanding that no single approach is a one-size-fits-all solution. Each project has its unique set of challenges and requirements. Therefore, having people with a broad spectrum of knowledge and the wisdom to apply the right approach at the right time is crucial for the successful delivery of projects in our increasingly complex and dynamic world.
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What is versatile PM ?
What?
Versatile project management refers to the ability to effectively manage projects across a variety of methodologies, environments, and situations. It involves being adaptable and skilled in various project management approaches, and being able to apply the most suitable method depending on the specific needs and context of each project.
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Key aspects
1.Methodology Adaptability: Versatile project management involves proficiency in multiple methodologies, such as Agile, Waterfall, Lean, and hybrid approaches. A versatile project manager can select and apply the most appropriate methodology based on the project's requirements, goals, and constraints.
2.Contextual Awareness: Understanding the unique aspects of each project, including the industry, organizational culture, team dynamics, and stakeholder needs, is crucial. This allows for a tailored approach that aligns with the specific environment and objectives.
3.Flexibility in Planning and Execution: Versatile project management is characterized by flexibility in planning, execution, and adaptation to change. This means being able to adjust plans and strategies as projects evolve and new information becomes available.
4.Risk Management: Effective versatile project management includes the ability to identify, assess, and manage risks in various project environments.
5.Stakeholder Engagement: Strong communication and stakeholder management skills are vital. Versatile project managers are adept at engaging with a diverse range of stakeholders, understanding their perspectives, and effectively managing their expectations.
6.Continuous Learning and Improvement: Versatile project managers are committed to continuous learning and improvement, staying updated with the latest trends, tools, and best practices in project management.
7.Problem-Solving Skills: They possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, enabling them to navigate complex project challenges and find effective solutions.
In essence, versatile project management is about having a broad skill set and an adaptable approach, enabling managers to navigate different project landscapes effectively. It's about blending the best practices from various project management disciplines to achieve the best possible outcomes for each unique project.