Introduction to Agile Webinar

Jun 4, 2024

Introduction to Agile Webinar

Speaker Introduction

  • 11 years of IT experience in software
  • Enterprise Agile Coach with SPC (Scaled Agile Certification) and PMI Certification
  • 3 years of Agile consulting, training, and agile testing

Webinar Agenda

  1. Why move towards Agile?
    • Benefits of Agile adoption
    • Failures of Waterfall model and how Agile addresses them
  2. Differences between PMP and PMI-ACP
  3. Overview of CSM and PMI-SP
  4. Exam criteria for PMI-ACP
    • Prerequisites
    • Achieving PDUs
  5. Q&A session

Why Agile?

  • Agile is suited for projects with unclear or evolving requirements
  • Not all projects benefit from Agile; suitable mostly for volatile environments
  • Waterfall model is still suitable for projects with clear, short-term requirements

Key Concepts

  • Architectural Runway: Basic Framework that adapts as requirements grow
  • Cone of Uncertainty: Importance of not estimating too early due to evolving requirements
  • Prioritization of features: Focus on delivering high-value features first
  • Reduction of Waste: Focus only on needed features to avoid unnecessary work
  • Improved decision making, confidence, trust, and team safety

Key Benefits of Agile

  • Reduced waste: Avoid development of unnecessary features
  • Increased speed: Regular deliverables every 2-3 weeks
  • Improved decision-making
  • Empowerment and improved team morale
  • Enhanced trust and safety within teams

PMI-ACP Certification

  • PMI-ACP (Agile Certified Practitioner) certification from PMI
  • Covers various Agile methodologies (Scrum, XP, Kanban, Lean, etc.)
  • Prerequisites: 1,500 hours of Agile project experience and 2,000 hours of general project experience
  • 24 PDUs required to appear for the exam

Differences from CSM (Certified Scrum Master)

  • PMI-ACP covers a broad spectrum of Agile methodologies
  • CSM focuses only on Scrum

Exam Preparation

  • Study 11 recommended books
  • Obtain 24 hours of Agile learning (PDUs)
  • PMI approval process takes 9-10 days
  • PMI-ACP certification is valid for 3 years, requiring renewal with 30 additional PDUs

Career Prospects

  • Suitable for Scrum Master, Agile Coach, Testers, and Developers
  • Helps in understanding Agile methodologies and improves process implementation

Miscellaneous

  • Flexibility and improved collaboration
  • Estimates should be based on complexity, not hours
  • Contracts in Agile are usually flexible to accommodate changes

Key Takeaways

  • Agile focuses on continuous improvement and adaptability
  • It's important to prioritize tasks and avoid unnecessary development work
  • PMI-ACP certification offers detailed insights into various Agile methodologies, making it a valuable credential for IT professionals