Why use a project management methodology?

The aim is to be able to standardize, structure, and organize work methods

In the past few years, the use of project management methodologies has become increasingly common. These include traditional alternatives, such as PMP or Prince 2, as well as agile methodologies, such as SCRUM, Kanban, DSDM, and Extreme Programming.

Being certified in one of these management methodologies is an added value for individuals as well as companies, and it has even formed part of the criteria in deciding to work with certain clients.

Why are project management methodologies needed? What benefits can be gained by working in line with their recommendations?

The general aim of project management methodology is to be able to standardize, structure, and organize work methods. This helps focus all projects in the same way and allows us to repeat successful aspects and learn from mistakes, resulting in a continuous improvement process. In other words, a methodology is a great tool for generating efficiency as it is used.

A project management methodology is used to obtain certain benefits:

• Organizing project times

• Providing tools to estimate times and costs correctly

• Helping to manage and minimize project risks

• Improving the cost-benefit relationship of resources

• Developing the team’s skills

In terms of resources, a methodology helps shorten the team’s learning curve and, as it is used in projects, it is improved and transformed in line with the company’s personal style. With an adapted and standardized focus, it is possible to lower implementation risks and improve the work.

A decisive factor in applying management methodologies is that they are not all suitable for all projects, so it is essential to understand the strengths of each one so it may be applied properly. This table compares the aspects that differentiate traditional methodologies from agile ones:

All the methodologies are a reference framework that adapts better to certain situations than others. What is truly important is to provide staff and the company with the work method that best adapts to the project for maximum efficiency and expected results.