Scrum vs. Traditional Project Management
Scrum vs. Traditional Project Management
1. Overview
Scrum: An agile framework used mainly in software development and complex projects. It promotes flexibility, iterative progress, and collaboration.
Traditional Project Management (Waterfall): A linear and sequential approach where the project is divided into distinct phases (planning, execution, closure), often used in construction, manufacturing, and other industries.
2. Approach
Aspect Scrum Traditional Project Management
Process Iterative and incremental Sequential and linear
Planning Adaptive, continuous planning Detailed upfront planning
Flexibility High; welcomes changes anytime Low; changes are costly and discouraged
Delivery Deliver working product in sprints Deliver complete product at end
Project Size Best for complex, evolving projects Suitable for projects with clear scope
3. Roles
Scrum Traditional PM
Product Owner (defines priorities) Project Manager (controls project)
Scrum Master (facilitator) Team Lead or Project Manager
Development Team (self-organized) Functional teams directed by PM
4. Planning and Control
Scrum:
Uses sprints (fixed time periods, usually 2-4 weeks)
Frequent daily stand-ups to track progress
Backlog grooming and sprint reviews to adapt priorities
Traditional PM:
Follows Gantt charts, critical path method
Progress is tracked against the original plan
Change requests are formal and controlled
5. Documentation
Scrum: Lightweight documentation focused on working software and communication.
Traditional PM: Heavy documentation covering every project aspect.
6. Customer Involvement
Scrum: Continuous collaboration and feedback from stakeholders throughout the project.
Traditional PM: Customer involvement mainly at the beginning (requirements) and end (delivery).
7. Risk Management
Scrum: Early and frequent delivery allows issues to be found and fixed quickly.
Traditional PM: Risks are identified and managed upfront; less flexibility to adapt later.
8. When to Use Which?
Scrum Traditional Project Management
Projects with changing requirements Projects with fixed and well-defined scope
Software development, innovative projects Construction, manufacturing, regulatory projects
Teams that value collaboration and autonomy Projects needing strict oversight and documentation
Summary
Feature Scrum Traditional Project Management
Flexibility High Low
Customer feedback Continuous At milestones
Delivery Incremental (in sprints) At project completion
Documentation Minimal and evolving Extensive and upfront
Team Structure Self-organized, cross-functional Hierarchical and directive
Learn Scrum Master Training in Hyderabad
Read More
What Is Scrum? A Beginner’s Guide
The Role of the Scrum Master Explained
Visit Our IHUB Talent Training in Hyderabad
Comments
Post a Comment