PROJECT MANAGEMENT, WHAT ASSISTS THE CONSULTANT TO SUCCEDD – WATERFALL OR AGILE METHODOLOGY, MAYBE SOMETHING ELSE?

Abstract

As a result of my research work I present the two most common project methodologies (waterfall and agile) and analyze the differences based on the project I lead taking into consideration specific aspects and characteristics. Based on my previous experiences so far, I came to that conclusion that it is not possible to apply only the agile or only the waterfall methodology during a projects’ lifecycle, it requires a broad horizon and a thorough knowledge of both methodologies in order to take the best step or decision in any situation in any kind of project. Given the fact that do not exist two exactly similar projects and that the application of specific methodological attributes are also not engraved in stone, a project manager must be able to apply the most required step from both and manage projects with some kind of hybrid solution, depending on the progress required and if success so desires. I examined the main project management methodologies, not only during the literature review, which includes a detailed presentation, analysis, advantages and disadvantages of the methodologies, but also through the experience and documentation of my own projects. The main motivation for writing my dissertation is that I had the opportunity to work in my current and previous workplaces and gain insight into projects that are managed, carried out and implemented using the agile and waterfall methodology. For me, project management as a profession turned into a mindset, it has helped me a lot in my daily life, because I learned how to think in an organized way, systematically, in processes, how to react to unexpected changes, it taught me structured, objective way of thinking in decision situations.