How to Choose the Right Methodology
Generally speaking if you are managing the development of software, it is best to go with an Agile approach. If your project is more linear, for example, the setup of a new photography studio, a Waterfall approach could be the preferred option.
Scenario 1: Agile Methodology for Software Development
Due to technical requirements of software development, it is often difficult to estimate timelines. This is because there first needs to be an understand of the technical work involved ahead of time in order to breakdown development tasks and estimate how long they’ll take to implement. This brings a high degree of risk because software development often results in erroneous projections due to complications.
A way in which to combat this is to focus on smaller interval of work where the team focuses on a high priority part of the project, understands it, plans, develops and delivers it, within a short period of time. Then in the next ‘sprint’ (time-boxed intervals) the focus on the next highest priority requirement. Over time, the product builds up without a lot of high risk up-front planning. The project focuses on the highest priority elements with the end result being an MVP (minimum viable product) which can be deployed.
In short, the use of sprints allows the project team to divide up work to:
a) discuss the project requirements and their solutions at the beginning of the sprint
b) prioritise the deliverables to be completed in that sprint
c) determine the priority of other work to be completed in later sprints.
This approach allows for solutions to be more fully understood before actual development work takes place, minimising change and risk. A Minimum Viable Product (MVP) is built when all of the sprints are completed and no time is wasted on tasks of lesser importance.
Scenario 2: Waterfall Methodology for a Photography Studio
Taking a linear approach to project managing is appropriate if you are working on a project that can be planned up-front with minimal risk. For example, setting up a photography studio. You can map out the various phases or stages of the project from the beginning. These stages might include:
- Planning
- Research and procurement of studio rental space
- Documentation/insurance
- Purchasing of equipment and planning studio setup
- Obtaining space and cleaning
- Setup of studio
- Marketing of new space
- Opening day
Some items can be completed simultaneously whereas others have to be done in a particular order. Mapping out the tasks allows you to see dependencies. For example you need to find and rent the studio space before you ship or move the equipment over to set up the studio.