What is Agile project management?

You might have heard the term ‘agile’ often used when it comes to discussions around project management and project teams. But what exactly is Agile project management? 

Essentially, Agile is a way of working that helps teams to deliver projects faster and more efficiently. It’s an iterative approach to project management – which means instead of project teams focussing on a big project launch, they get to work in much smaller increments on a project, focussing on continuous improvements that respond to and integrate customer feedback. 

Learn more about the roles and responsibilities of a project manager:

This flexible approach to project management means Agile teams can review and adjust their work and processes continuously, and respond to change quickly as they go along. It also means organisations can direct their money, time and resources more effectively, as they’re able to deliver projects that better meet the needs of their customers – faster. 

Principles of Agile project management 

There are 12 principles of Agile project management, as defined by the Agile Manifesto: 

1. Satisfy customers through early and continuous delivery 

2. Welcome changing requirements, even late in a project 

3. Deliver value frequently

4. Break the silos of your project by having cross-functional team collaboration 

5. Build projects around motivated individuals 

6. The most effective and efficient method of communication is face-to-face 

7. Working software is the primary measure of progress 

8. Maintain a sustainable and constant working pace 

9. Continuous attention to technical excellence and good design enhances agility

10. Simplicity is essential 

11. Self-organising teams generate the most value 

12. Regularly reflect and adjust your ways of working to boost your effectiveness 

13. Benefits of Agile project management 

An Agile approach to project management offers great benefits to organisations, teams, and customers alike. Its focus on continuous improvements and adaptations in response to customer feedback helps to ensure customers are getting the best value and quality from a product or service. It also helps organisations to better focus their project efforts so they can make the best use of their time, budget, and resources, and to boost their project teams’ morale as they deliver more successful projects that better meet customers’ needs. 

Benefits of Agile project management 

• Greater focus on customer needs 

• Better allocation of project budget, time, and resources 

• Increased flexibility and ability to adapt to change 

• Faster responses to issues and blockers 

• Increased cross-functional team collaboration 

• Faster project delivery 

• Greater project control and success 

How can you become an Agile project manager? 

Becoming an Agile project manager requires a specific skillset and knowledge base. Having an advanced understanding of Agile project management – including its principles and methodologies – is essential if you’re looking to enter a career as a successful Agile project manager, or to take the next step in your project management career. 

An MSc in Project Management will give you the expert knowledge, experience, and practical skills you need to excel as a project manager. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the various disciplines involved in project management, how they’re integrated within organisations, and how the latest Agile methodologies work in practice. 

Find out more about how an MSc in Project Management can advance your career:

Cambridge Education Group’s MSc Project Management includes a specific Project Methodologies module, which explores in detail the various methodologies (including PRINCE2®) underpinning Agile project management, and how to effectively apply them within organisations – essential knowledge and practical skills you’ll need to succeed in your career as a project manager. 

It also covers modules focussing on effective leadership, projects in global environments, sustainable development principles and practice, and managing project portfolios and programmes.  

Equipped with this knowledge base and these practical skills, you’ll be able to boost your employability as a project manager, or to take up a promotion within your current organisation. 

If you’re ready to launch or advance your career in Agile project management, discover how Cambridge Education Group’s MSc Project Management (to be validated by LSBU) can position you as a highly-skilled and sought-after project manager in the global job market.