There are many different methodologies that can be used for project management. The two that I would like the most are Agile methodology and Scrum methodology. So, what are the differences between these two methodologies, and when is choosing the right one? In this article, I want to summarize the key differences between agile and Scrum methodologies based on what I just read from Northeastern University Graduate Programs. Their article is really helpful for me and you to understand what they are and their differences. The article link is posted below. Feel free to check it out for further information:
Agile vs. Scrum: What’s the Difference?
By Shayna Jouber
What is Agile Project Management?
People say that Agile is a way of thinking about project management that focuses on delivering in small steps, being in touch with customers, and being able to adapt to change. Agile doesn’t tell you what process to use; instead, it gives you ideals and principles (like those in the Agile Manifesto) that you may use with other methods (like Scrum, Kanban, XP, etc.).\
Important traits: constant communication with customers and end users, willingness to change the scope of work, and delivering work in small steps.
What is Scrum Project Management?
One such approach in the Agile family is Scrum. It offers a clear procedure for handling tasks, including who completes them, how they are arranged, and when they are finished.
Typical Scrum responsibilities include a cross-functional team, a product owner who is in charge of optimizing the product’s value, and a scrum master who makes sure the team follows Scrum procedures.
Work is divided into sprints, which typically last two to four weeks. The team decides which subset of the scope to finish at a sprint planning meeting. Every sprint concludes with a review and retrospective to consider what was accomplished and make improvements.
Frequent delivery of “shippable” increments as opposed to waiting until the project is finished to provide everything is one of the clear benefits.
Agile vs Scrum – Key differences
Agile is the underlying idea or strategy, and Scrum is a way to put Agile into practice.
Scrum is always Agile since it adheres to Agile principles, but utilizing Agile does not imply using Scrum; you may choose to use another Agile methodology instead.
Choosing the Right Methodology
- Agile: Agile makes sense if the project requires flexibility, frequent testing, stakeholder feedback, and shifting requirements.
- Scrum: Scrum usually works well in situations with a lot of uncertainty, rapid changes, and the ability to arrange into sprint cycles.
Selecting the approach is only one aspect of it; another is having strong communication, leadership, critical thinking, project management, and organizational dynamics skills.
Conclusion
Don’t use “Agile” and “Scrum” interchangeably; Agile is more comprehensive, and Scrum is one way to achieve it.
Before choosing Agile, consider the context of your project; if you decide on Agile, select the appropriate approach.
Methodology is only one aspect of successful project management; other factors include teamwork, stakeholder engagement, effective leadership, and flexibility.
From the blog CS@Worcester – Nguyen Technique by Nguyen Vuong and used with permission of the author. All other rights reserved by the author.
