The Software Project Manager’s Bridge to Agility

Book description

When software development teams move to agile methods, experienced project managers often struggle—doubtful about the new approach and uncertain about their new roles and responsibilities. In this book, two long-time certified Project Management Professionals (PMPRs) and Scrum trainers have built a bridge to this dynamic new paradigm. They show experienced project managers how to successfully transition to agile by refocusing on facilitation and collaboration, not “command and control.”

The authors begin by explaining how agile works: how it differs from traditional “plan-driven” methodologies, the benefits it promises, and the real-world results it delivers. Next, they systematically map the Project Management Institute’s classic, methodology-independent techniques and terminology to agile practices. They cover both process and project lifecycles and carefully address vital issues ranging from scope and time to cost management and stakeholder communication. Finally, drawing on their own extensive personal experience, they put a human face on your personal transition to agile--covering the emotional challenges, personal values, and key leadership traits you’ll need to succeed.

Coverage includes

  • Relating the PMBOKR Guide ideals to agile practices: similarities, overlaps, and differences

  • Understanding the role and value of agile techniques such as iteration/release planning and retrospectives

  • Using agile techniques to systematically and continually reduce risk

  • Implementing quality assurance (QA) where it belongs: in analysis, design, defect prevention, and continuous improvement

  • Learning to trust your teams and listen for their discoveries

  • Procuring, purchasing, and contracting for software in agile, collaborative environments

  • Avoiding the common mistakes software teams make in transitioning to agile

  • Coordinating with project management offices and non-agile teams

  • “Selling” agile within your teams and throughout your organization

  • For every project manager who wants to become more agile.

    Part I    An Agile Overview 7

    Chapter 1    What is "Agile"? 9

    Chapter 2    Mapping from the PMBOKR Guide to Agile 25

    Chapter 3    The Agile Project Lifecycle in Detail 37

    Part II    The Bridge: Relating PMBOKR Guide Practices to Agile Practices 49

    Chapter 4    Integration Management 51

    Chapter 5    Scope Management 67

    Chapter 6    Time Management 83

    Chapter 7    Cost Management 111

    Chapter 8    Quality Management 129

    Chapter 9    Human Resources Management 143

    Chapter 10    Communications Management 159

    Chapter 11    Risk Management 177

    Chapter 12    Procurement Management 197

    Part III    Crossing the Bridge to Agile 215

    Chapter 13    How Will My Responsibilities Change? 217

    Chapter 14    How Will I Work with Other Teams Who Aren't Agile? 233

    Chapter 15    How Can a Project Management Office Support Agile? 249

    Chapter 16    Selling the Benefits of Agile 265

    Chapter 17    Common Mistakes 285

    Appendix A    Agile Methodologies 295

    Appendix B    Agile Artifacts 301

    Glossary 321

    Bibliography 327

    Index 333

    Product information

    • Title: The Software Project Manager’s Bridge to Agility
    • Author(s): Michele Sliger, Stacia Broderick
    • Release date: May 2008
    • Publisher(s): Addison-Wesley Professional
    • ISBN: 9780321572783