Module 3 – Case
AGILE/SCRUM
Assignment Overview
As mentioned in the Background Material, you will focus on
the project methodology called Agile and Scrum. You will take this knowledge
and apply it to the success found at Primavera.
In Module 3, we explore Agile and Scrum as it relates to
project management and the case of Primavera. Agile and Scrum utilizes an
iterative, highly collaborative, people centric methodology with a focus on
delivering incremental value throughout the project lifecycle.
The predominant method for the development of software is
the waterfall method. The waterfall method utilizes a series of sequential steps.
In an attempt to make the waterfall more iterative, practitioners have placed
feedback loops back to the previous phases of the waterfall (see Figure 1).
Waterfall model
Figure 1: Waterfall model
In contrast to the waterfall model, the agile model utilizes
a “time boxed” or fixed time to drive the volume activity. These time-boxed
segments are often called “sprints.” The priority of the requirements is set by
the end user clientele. The development group takes this list of prioritized
requirements and commits to the amount of work that can be done within each
sprint (see Figure 2). The goal of agile is the creation of value as quickly as
possible without losing sight of the big picture.
Time Box
Figure 2: Agile/Scrum Model
Case Assignment
Agile/Scrum project management is a valuable alternative to
the traditional waterfall model. In this Case, you will be reviewing,
summarizing, and commenting upon the similarities and differences among these
models and their applicability to various types of projects. Your Case should
include the following:
Provide a brief description of Agile/Scrum and waterfall
models, highlighting their differences. What criticisms have been directed at
each type of model? Be specific.
Describe the differences between Scrum and generic Agile
models.
Describe the types of projects best suited to Agile/Scrum
methodology. Are there any projects that would be better handled using
waterfall methodology? Explain.
Discuss how Agile/Scrum methodology would benefit project
development in an organization in which you have some familiarity. If it would
be of no benefit, or of less benefit than the waterfall model, then explain
why.
Assignment Expectations
You should try to integrate your responses into a seamless
essay rather than using a question/answer format. You can segregate answers to
the various questions using sub-headings, if you would like. Please present
your response in a 3- to 5-page essay.
A good format for this paper is to use section headings. For
the first section the heading “Introduction” works quite well, of course. You
may want to include brief sub headings for the key topics in the body of your
essay and your final section could simply use “Conclusion” or “Summary and
Conclusion” as a heading. There are variations of this heading usage formatting
approach, of course. The key point here is that headings are very useful for
helping to organize your essay. They can also provide clues for your professor
for finding your answers to specific questions.
Also, please make sure that you include an appropriate cover
page and that you cite and reference your sources.
Include this essay in a Word Document and upload.
