The Complete Guide to Project Methodology

When it comes to managing your projects, you can do it two ways!

First, you could do it the wrong way! Start the project without planning, and then hope that you and your team can pull it off. While you might be able to finish in the end, you’ll waste a lot more time.

So instead, you should plan out all your projects in the most efficient way. And the first step for it is to decide on your project management methodology!

But what is it exactly, and how can you do that? Continue reading to find out.

What is Project Management Methodology?

First things first, let’s get a clear understanding of what project management methodology is!

To put it simply, it’s just the way you manage your projects. Each methodology has its own set of principles and practices that aim to give you the most optimum performance.

But since there are so many different projects, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all methodology! And for that reason, there are hundreds of different methodologies out there.

So when deciding on one, you must consider everything. These include your project costs, longevity, team size, risk tolerance, etc.

6 Main Types of Methodologies

That’s because this methodology is linear. Each step is clearly defined, and there won’t be any changes along the way, hence the name.

So, what makes this project management method so great is that it brings a lot of clarity. With it, everything is planned, and you know exactly what the next step is!

Projects with this methodology usually follow this sequence:

1. Requirements
2. Analysis
3. Design
4. Construction
5. Testing
6. Deployment and Maintenance

However, there are a couple of problems as well! One of the biggest problems is its linearity. That means it doesn’t work best for projects that require creativity, like content marketing.

2 – Lean Methodology

Lean methodology is quite similar to Waterfall methodology but with one twist. Like Waterfall, Lean methodology is usually linear, but instead of doing the same thing repeatedly, Lean tries to make the process better.

It does that by maximizing the project’s value while minimizing any waste. One of the most famous users of this methodology is Toyota, which is why they can create such reliable cars.

So Lean methodology works best for projects where you expect continuous improvements. However, like Waterfall, this methodology won’t work for creative projects.

3 – Agile Methodology

Agile project management methodology is quite different from Waterfall. Instead of the project having a linear process, a project can go various ways with agile methodology.

With this methodology, you emphasize collaboration and are open to changes if it makes sense. That makes it perfect for projects that are liable to change. These could include your marketing campaigns.

4 – Kanban Methodology

There are various ways how you can use Agile methodology. One of the most popular methods is through Kanban project management methodology.

In many ways, Kanban is more of a framework than a methodology!

That’s because the process is separated into different columns. Each column acts as a stage of your project. And in those columns are various tasks.

In many ways, the Kanban methodology emphasizes helping you visually see your project’s progress. That comes with various benefits. For example, you can see where the bottlenecks are in your project.

So, if you’re looking for a methodology with which you can see your project’s progress at a glance, then this might be for you. It will also work well for projects that work on a continuous “pull” basis, like content creation.

5 – Adaptive Project Framework Methodology

Adaptive Project Framework methodology (aka APF methodology) is another type of agile project management methodology. It differs from other project management methodologies because it works best for longer-term projects.

In the APF method, teams need to anticipate the risks of the project and plan for the unexpected. That way, you’ll make the project outcome more predictable. However, for this to work, you will need to be very clear on your ultimate goals.

6 – Scrum Methodology

And lastly, we’d like to talk about the Scrum methodology. It’s more than just a framework! Here’s how it works:

Teams split their work into short cycles called “sprints,” which usually last about 1-2 weeks. Then, the groups are led by a Scrum Master who keeps an eye on the progress during the sprint.

What this project management methodology tries to do is strive for continuous improvement. So if that’s something you’re looking to get into with your team, then this might be the correct one for you.

Conclusion

So now that you know what all the six different methodologies mean, all that is left is to pick the correct one for you. Choose the methodology with outcomes you like the most and what works for your project! Then you should see your and your team’s productivity skyrocket!

However, if you’re still struggling with choosing the right one, why not schedule a call with me? I’d love to help you pick the correct methodology and any other problems you have.

So, schedule a call with me here!