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PRINCE2, PMI, Scrum, XP, LeSS, etc. - the list of project management theories is long.
With the NextLytics "project management hybrid", we pursue the goal of creating a practicable mix of both agile and plan-based project methodologies from the huge amount on offer. In this way, we manage to bring each project to a successful conclusion with individual commitment.
Four steps, one final retrospective
Agile start
1
Kick-Off & Prototype
Iterative Process
Plan-based implementation
2
Technical
realisation
MVP implementation
&
Definition of test cases
3
Test phase
Application of test cases
&
Troubleshooting/Debugging
4
Go live & Hypercare
Live connection/application by customer
&
Technical support
(10 % T&M order volume)
Agile closure
Retro
Joint reflection and feedback session on the project work
Agile start
Kick-off & Prototype
Especially at the beginning of the project in the "kick-off and prototype phase", we follow an agile approach. With the aim of developing a common idea of project goals, process and content together with our customers, the flexibility of this approach helps us to iteratively (gradually approaching) define a planning basis.
The kick-off & prototype phase follows the "think it, build it, ship it, tweak it" approach and defines the MVP (Minimum Viable Product - a first usable product version with the minimum functionalities to be able to further develop it based on feedback).
Iteration process
„Think it” is done in the context of a workshop in which we clarify central questions of the project work together with the customer. The start is made with the elaboration of the product, e.g. the data basis, the product requirements and wishes etc.. Once the requirements for the first draft (MVP - see "Build it" for an explanation) have been clarified, the framework conditions are worked out. For example, the framework conditions include which tools should be used, which roles should be filled, which cultural elements, communication and meeting structures should be taken into account.
„Build it“ means the implementation of the understood requirements from the Think it workshop. We are talking here about the creation of the "MVP" (Minimum Viable Product). The MVP is a simple but usable implementation of the understood requirements and the first opportunity for the customer to see and test the product.
„Ship it“ is held again as a joint workshop with the customer and includes the presentation, testing and, if necessary, the inclusion of additions and optimisation requests for the MVP.
The "Tweak it" workshop, which can be carried out together in the Ship it workshop, enables the inclusion of requests for enhancements and optimisation of the MVP. Here, a fine adjustment and fine-tuning of the product takes place in order to be able to consider even the smallest requirements and wishes for further development.
Summary Kick-Off & Prototype:
This process is repeated (iterations) until the product is defined in such a way that it can go into plan-based implementation.
Plan-based implementation
2
Technical realisation
MVP implementation
&
Definition of test cases
3
Test phase
Application of test cases
&
Troubleshooting/Debugging
4
Go live & Hypercare
Live connection /
application by customer
&
Technical support
(10 % T&M order volume)
The agile start phase for defining the project details and optimising the MVP is followed in three steps by a plan-based - classic waterfall-oriented - implementation of the project.
Here we agree on a comprehensible schedule together with the client so that all parties are aware of when, what and by whom which tasks are to be completed and interim results can be expected.
This procedure applies to the actual implementation (technical realisation), the test phase and the go-live with the associated hypercare.
Project conclusion - Retrospective (Retro)
The conclusion, after the successful go-live and project integration into the customer organisation, is a final "retro workshop", which once again follows an agile project methodology. In the retrospective, we ask each other questions together with the client that relate both to the past project development:
As well as on current and future issues:
Retro
Joint reflection and feedback session on the project work
