In PMBOK project integration you initiate a project by developing a project charter; plan- by creating a project management plan; execute- by directing and managing project work; monitor and control- through tracking, review and reporting; and close, where all project aspects are finalized (PMI, 2017, pp. 18,70,77). 

Projects differ vastly, defined by PMBOK as ‘a temporary endeavour undertaken to create a unique product, service, or result’ (PMI, 2017, p. 4). A uniqueness that can be found mirroring in differences across project teams, working environments, fields, and desired outcomes. For good practice PMBOK is a reference to tailoring your individual projects to methodologies which can be supplied by experts, bought and sourced from vendors, professional associations, or government agencies (PMI, 2017, p. 28). 

What are Project Management methodologies? 

Some well-known project management methodologies are Agile, Prince2 and Waterfall. 

 Agile is a popular ‘iterative’ method of project management that plans for changes and focuses on immediate needs (Caseley, 2019).Four core values of Agile include: 

1.     ‘Individuals and interactions over processes and tools, 

2.     Working software over comprehensive documentation

3.     Customer collaboration over contraction negotiation

4.     Responding to change over following a plan’ (Adobe, n.d.; Cobb C. G., 2015)

Agile ‘plans, develops and implements’ mini-projects (known as sprint iterations) in increments of up-to-three-weeks (Caseley, 2019; Microsoft 365 Team, 2019). Twelve principles and six steps support simplified yet specialised team roles of the product owner, the scrum master/project manager, and team members (Cobb C. G., 2015).

 Beginning formally in the 1990’s, The Agile manifesto of 2001 is often viewed as the true Agile inception, using core values, principles and steps to tailor to the task. Adapting Agile methodology to work in unison with PMBOK can optimise efficiency. Immediate measuring of ‘goodness of fit (GOF)’ through Agile feedback techniques can avoid gaps in planned 

research theory and actual application (Chou & Yang, 2012, pp. 53-54).In Agile Scrum constant feedback, shared responsibility, daily meetings and speedy development need member expertise to achieve objectives (Microsoft 365 Team, 2019).

Steve Caseley, a Principal Consultant with Sensei and Microsoft project manager (with over 35 years of experience) recommends hybrid iterative project management for a balance between traditional approaches like the 1970’s Waterfall. Waterfall methodology uses phases in succession, to sequentially list project activities with dependant deliverables (Caseley, 2019; Microsoft 365 Team, 2019) Today projects need to be dynamic. ‘Clear and effective communication’ found in Agile standups supported by PMBOK project management integration allows stakeholders to share their expertise (Chou & Yang, 2012, p. 61). 

References

Adobe. (n.d.). Agile project management. Retrieved from Adobe Workfront: https://www.workfront.com/project-management/methodologies/agile

Caseley, S. (2019, June 20). Project management: traditional, iterative, or hybrid. Retrieved from Microsoft: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/business-insights-ideas/resources/adopting-the-best-project-management-process-for-your-business

Chou, J.-S., & Yang, J.-G. (2012). Project Management Knowledge and Effects on Construction Project Outcomes An Empirical Study. Project Management Institute.

Cobb, C. G. (2015). Chapter 2: Agile History and the Agile Manifesto. In The Project Manager's Guide to Mastering Agile: Principles and Practices for an Adaptive Approach. Wily.

Cobb, C. G. (2015). The Project Manager's Guide to Mastering Agile: Principles and Practices for an Adaptive Approach. Wiley.

Cottonbro. (2021, February 28). Man in White Long Sleeve Sweater [Image file]. Retrieved from Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-in-white-long-sleeve-sweater-7430339/

Dinsmore, P., & Cabanis-Brewin, J. (2005). AMA Handbook of Project Management. AMACOM.

Lock, D. (2013). Naked Project Management: The Bare Facts. Retrieved from ProQuest Ebook Central : https://ebookcentral.proquest.com

Microsoft 365 Team. (2019, August 8). How to choose the best agile methodology for your project. Retrieved from Microsoft: https://www.microsoft.com/en-au/microsoft-365/business-insights-ideas/resources/how-to-choose-the-best-agile-methodology-for-your-project

PRINCE2.com. (2021). PRINCE2 Methodology. Retrieved from PRINCE2.com: https://www.prince2.com/aus/prince2-methodology

Project Management Institute. (2017). Project Integration Management. In A guide to the project management book of knowledge (pmbok guide).