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The success of a project depends to a large extent on the choice of the appropriate project management method. “Waterfall was yesterday, today we develop agile” is a phrase that is often heard. However, it is not quite that simple, because both models have their justification.
The classic waterfall approach is by no means outdated. It is still suitable for leading projects to success with a clear goal and clearly defined steps. Under certain conditions, an agile implementation does not make sense because the advantage of dynamics, flexibility and frequent coordination is not matched by any value.
The situation is different when we only have a rough idea of what we want to achieve, or when it is only clear what problem we want to solve. In this case, it is helpful to keep different options open and redefine requirements and milestones in shorter iterations/sprints. Discipline is an important factor here, because the freedom of each individual must be used optimally. At the same time, a common mindset, the unified understanding of the new way, is very important.
High planning reliability
Orderly structure
Clear, linear processes
Precise and reliable execution of complex projects
Creation of a common understanding of the product/result to be delivered right from the start
Optimal approach to projects with constant requirements
Project management using the waterfall method is a classic and long-established approach. However, this does not mean that its application is no longer justified today. Rather, the approach is particularly suitable for projects in which the requirements are constant and no short-term correction loops are necessary.
In this way, projects can be led to success with a clear goal and precisely defined steps. The implementation is linear. This means that the project is divided into several phases that build on each other and are run through in a fixed sequence. Milestones can be described in advance and the goals and the way to reach them are clearly defined for all participants. After each step, the results achieved are reviewed and approved, and only then does the next project step follow. Modification requirements flow into the project via change requests.
Requirements specifications and functional specifications are fixed components of a waterfall project. While the requirements specification contains the client’s requirements, the functional specification specifies how these requirements are to be met.
In the recent past, agile methods such as Scrum have increasingly established themselves in project management alongside the waterfall model. They follow an iterative and incremental approach in which the project participants approach the solution step by step.
In agile project management, the individual project steps merge smoothly into one another and sometimes take place in parallel. Agile implementation takes place in sprints, which usually last between two and four weeks. Each project phase includes conception, implementation, testing and documentation for the respective subproduct. At the beginning of each sprint, the objectives are defined. In short daily meetings, the participants review the successes and discuss the next steps.
In agile project management, priorities can be set anew for each sprint. Due to the short processing cycles, this procedure makes it possible to react to changed requirements and to counteract possible undesirable developments at an early stage. This flexibility proves to be an advantage, especially in projects with a duration of several months, as the framework conditions, implementation requirements and priorities can certainly change during such a period. Since the requirements can be continuously corrected and sharpened during the course of the project, the end product is ultimately ideally tailored to the needs of the users.
Maximum flexibility and adaptability to new framework conditions
Early detection of undesirable developments by evaluating the implementation after each sprint
Rapid achievement of initial results (important for project acceptance)
Possibility of continuous correction and adaptation of the product to changing user needs during the course of the project
Project execution on the basis of sprints (processing and testing of individual topics in short processing cycles)
For each project, an individual decision must be made as to which procedure is better suited to the requirements. When deciding for or against a specific project management model, numerous factors must be taken into account. This also includes that those involved are aware of the limitations or disadvantages of the respective model.
Those who carefully weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of the different project management methods and still cannot reach a clear decision can also opt for a middle way.
What could a combination of the waterfall model and an agile approach look like? It would be possible, for example, to draw up a long-term plan that does not, however, provide for a rigid separation between the individual phases. In addition, sprints could be built into individual phases to complete specific subtasks.
No matter which choice a company makes, the decision on the appropriate project approach should be made as early as possible and then maintained. For success, it is important that the stakeholders and the project participants stand behind the decision and that there is permanent, credible communication about it.
Integration projects in the SAP environment are highly complex. The idea of simply integrating new systems, processes or functionalities into existing environments falls short. The success of integration projects depends to a large extent on the correct handling of process changes and the ability to manage the project and the people involved.
In many cases, agile project management offers a valuable alternative to the traditional, planning-oriented approach based on the waterfall model. It makes managing projects and processes dynamic and flexible. Agile project management emphasizes the positive aspects of low planning and leadership intensity: fast implementation, enormous adaptability and great personal responsibility.
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