Agile for Project Managers

Agile project management is a customer-centric approach to software design and delivery that emphasizes self-directed teams, feedback, light documentation, and shorter development cycles. This book is a valuable resource for project managers transitioning to agile, covering industry standards, certifications, and being agile, and comparing agile methods to traditional project management. It is aligned with the Project Management Institute (PMI®) Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP®) credential and provides readers with the understanding required to decide which projects will benefit from agile and assess their organizations readiness for agile methods.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Agile project management is a well-established methodology for designing and delivering software that offers enhanced value to customers. At its core, agility revolves around self-directed teams, continuous feedback, minimal documentation, and the rapid development and deployment of working software. In contrast to traditional project management approaches, agile projects involve minimal upfront planning, emphasizing flexibility and adaptability.

The role of a project manager in an agile context differs significantly from their traditional counterparts. Agile project managers play a facilitative and coaching role, guiding teams through the process of continuous improvement and delivering value incrementally. They focus on empowering teams to make decisions, collaborate effectively, and adapt to changing requirements.

Agile for Project Managers is a comprehensive guide designed to assist project managers from various industries in transitioning to agile project management. The book delves into the project management component of agility, covering industry standards, certifications, and the principles of being agile. It also provides a comparative analysis of agile methods versus traditional project management approaches, helping readers understand the distinct differences between the two.

The book's primary focus aligns with the Project Management Institute's (PMI®) Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP®) credential, making it an invaluable resource for individuals preparing for the PMI-ACP® exam. It offers comprehensive coverage of various aspects of agile, including:

Agile as a Project Management Methodology: This section provides an introduction to agile principles, values, and practices. It explains how agile differs from traditional project management approaches and highlights the benefits of adopting an agile mindset.

Agile Teams: The book explores the composition and dynamics of agile teams. It discusses the importance of cross-functional collaboration, self-organization, and continuous learning within teams. It also provides guidance on building and sustaining high-performing agile teams.

Agile Tools and Techniques: This section covers a range of agile tools and techniques that project managers can utilize to facilitate collaboration, streamline processes, and enhance project visibility. It includes tools such as Scrum, Kanban, and Extreme Programming (XP), as well as techniques such as sprint planning, daily stand-up meetings, and continuous feedback.

Flavors of Agile: Agile is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The book explores different flavors of agile, such as Scrum, Kanban, and Lean, and discusses their specific characteristics, advantages, and challenges. It helps project managers choose the most appropriate agile flavor for their projects based on their specific requirements and context.

Agile Principles: This section delves into the core principles of agile, including customer focus, continuous improvement, and adaptability. It explains how these principles guide the development and delivery of software and how project managers can apply them to ensure the success of their agile projects.

Agile Certifications: The book provides an overview of various agile certifications available in the market. It discusses the benefits of obtaining certifications, the eligibility criteria, and the exam preparation process. It also includes a list of reputable agile training providers that can assist project managers in acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge.

In addition to its comprehensive coverage, Agile for Project Managers offers practical insights and strategies for project managers transitioning to agile. It includes case studies, real-world examples, and best practices that can help project managers overcome common challenges and achieve success in their agile endeavors.

Whether you are a seasoned project manager seeking to enhance your skills or a newcomer to the field looking to gain a foundational understanding of agile, Agile for Project Managers is an essential resource. It provides the knowledge, tools, and techniques needed to transition to agile project management effectively and achieve greater project success.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032340166