Mixed Agile/Traditional Project Management Methodology – Reality or Illusion?

Abstract

Project management methodology is usually defined as a set of methods, techniques, procedures, rules, templates, and best practices used on a project. It is commonly based on a specific project management approach, that defines a set of principles and guidelines which define the way a project is managed. With the growing trend of usage of agile project management on different projects, it is clear that two opposite sides exist – traditional and agile project management approach, and that there exists a need to combine both approaches. So, the question is if it is and how it is possible to combine both approaches in a single project management methodology?The paper covers thorough literature review and starts with the definition of the project management approach and of the project management methodology. It provides overview of different project management approaches and defines project management methodologies. The literature review shows what is considered as part of project management methodology in a wider or narrower sense, and what the main characteristics of a methodology are. The need for combining project management approaches is shown on the case of software development project.The paper provides basis for further research on application of different project management approaches and methodologies. Further research could build on an idea of creating unique methodology for project, based on different project management approaches. In that way it is possible to create project management methodologies that have high possibility of customization to projects and to project environments.