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Overcoming PM Challenges with Scrum Project Management Approach

Project managers that have experience in managing software or engineering projects are often well versed in using the scrum approach. The approach is known by different names including agile, stand-up, and sprints. Whatever the name of the approach, the fact cannot be denied that it is extremely effective in managing project deliverables.

In this article, we will shed light on the salient features of the scrum approach and how it can be applied in the present context.

Scrum Project Management

Developed in 1993 by Jeff Sutherland, the scrum project management approach can be linked to the concept of scrum that was introduced by Takeuchi and Nonaka in 1986. The best thing about the project management approach is that it can be applied using any work management software. The approach was developed after comparing the effectiveness of highly effective cross functional teams.

Scrum approach to managing project is used by Fortune 500 companies. The Scrum approach offers a less complex approach to managing projects. It consists of an iterative process that helps organizations deliver quality project delivery. 

A typical scrum approach consists of the following important components:

• A ScrumMaster keeps the team members laser-focused on the goals
• The team members have to complete the tasks in sprints. Each sprint usually lasts three to four weeks.
• A product owner creates a backlog that consists of a prioritized wish list.
• At the end of each sprint, the work is made ready and delivered to the customer.
• Every spring ends with retrospection and review
• Another set of tasks are chosen from the backlog, and the cycle repeats.

The scrum cycle will repeat until the entire project is completed, the deadline arrives, or the budget has depleted. The project requirements will determine what milestones mark the end of the project. Scrum management ensures that the project deliverables fully meets the requirements of the end user. 

Scrum consists of fixed length iterations. Also, known as sprints, these give the team a benchmark for finishing the tasks. They act as a milestone that must be completed to ensure quality project delivery. It serves as a tangible progress of the team. Also, the approach acts as a continuous inspiration that will help in successful completion of the project. 

Conclusion

Whichever method you use to manage the project, it’s important that you select the right software. The software that you use will determine largely the success of the project. Make sure that the work management solution meets the need of the team. The software should allow easy collaboration between the team members. Consider going for online collaboration software that offers greater flexibility in connecting the team. With an online project management application, you can better apply the concept of scrum approach resulting in efficient project management.