education

Beyond Software: Can Agile Be Used for Non-Tech Projects?

Agile methodology has been a game-changer in the software development industry, but can it be applied to non-tech projects? The answer is yes.

Agile is a flexible and adaptable project management approach that can be used in a variety of industries, including education, or for maniging projects at non-profit organizations.

In education, Agile can be used to improve the effectiveness of curriculum development.  For example, an Agile approach can be used to break down the curriculum development process into small, manageable chunks and allow for continuous feedback from teachers and students. This approach can help to ensure that the curriculum is relevant and effective. Additionally, Agile can improve communication and collaboration between teachers, administrators, and students.

Similarly, Agile can be used in non-profit organizations to manage projects such as fundraising and volunteer coordination. The Agile approach can help non-profits to be more responsive to the needs of their clients and to make better use of limited resources. Agile emphasizes regular meetings and check-ins, which can help to keep team members informed and on track. It also encourages collaboration and continuous feedback, leading to a more positive work environment.

Team during Agile meeting

However, it is essential to note that Agile is not a one-size-fits-all approach and it may not be suitable for every project.

If you’re interested in using Agile for your non-software projects, here are some steps you can take to get started:

  1. Identify your organization’s specific needs and determine if Agile is the right approach for your project.
    • Assess the current project management approach and identify areas for improvement.
    • Identify the goals and objectives of the project and determine if Agile aligns with them.
    • Determine if the project requires a flexible and adaptable approach.
    • Consider the size and complexity of the project and determine if Agile is feasible.
  2. Create a team of stakeholders who will be involved in the Agile implementation process.
    • Identify key stakeholders such as project managers, team members, and stakeholders.
    • Involve all stakeholders in the Agile implementation process.
    • Create a team charter outlining the roles and responsibilities of each team member.
    • Hold regular team meetings to ensure all stakeholders are informed and engaged.
  3. Develop a detailed plan for implementing Agile, including timelines and resources.
    • Create a project roadmap outlining the key milestones and deliverables.
    • Identify the resources required to implement Agile, such as training and tools.
    • Develop a detailed project plan including timelines and deadlines.
    • Identify any potential risks or roadblocks and develop a plan to mitigate them.
  4. Start with small projects to test the Agile approach before scaling up.
    • Start with a pilot project that is small in scope and easy to manage.
    • Use the pilot project to test the Agile approach and identify any challenges.
    • Adjust the approach as needed and use the pilot project as a learning opportunity.
    • Once the pilot project is successful, scale up to larger projects.
  5. Monitor progress and adjust the approach as needed.
    • Regularly review project progress and identify any areas for improvement.
    • Hold regular retrospectives to reflect on the project and identify areas for improvement.
    • Make adjustments to the approach as needed to ensure the project stays on track.
    • Continuously monitor progress and make adjustments as needed to ensure success.
  6. If you need help with Agile transformation, or if you would like to know more about the benefits of Agile for non-software projects, please fill free to reach out and I would be happy to answer any questions you may have.

In conclusion, Agile methodology can just as well benefit many non-tech projects such as projects in education or projects managed by non-profit organizations. It is a flexible and adaptable approach that can improve project management and increase the well-being of employees. It’s a method that can be easily adapted to various industries and can be a game-changer for non-tech projects as well. Agile can be a great solution for organizations looking to improve their project management, communication, and collaboration within the team.

How I Learned to Love the Change.

The first time I experienced a significant change, I was ten, and my home country was falling apart. The year was 1991 and the country that gave the world the first human in space – the USSR – was quickly sliding into oblivion. At the time, I was too young to fully comprehend the consequences of undergoing change, but not even my parents understood how the collapse of the “evil empire” would affect us all. Almost a decade of hardship ensued, but fortunately, we all survived.

The next significant change for me happened in 1996 when I, under pressure from my teacher, transferred to a different high school. This time the change was deliberate, but still, it was terrifying and uncomfortable. My parents nor I could predict the consequences, and instead of being one of the top students in my old school, I became just one of the many. While I struggled to adjust to much higher academic standards, I was invigorated by all smart and exciting people surrounding me. It was hard, but after graduating in the top 15 of the class, I was very grateful to my teacher for encouraging me to switch high schools.

Change Ahead
“There is nothing permanent except change.” – Heraclitus

Then in 2003, after a few turbulent and indecisive years, I undertook the most significant change in my life – I moved to the United States. This time around, I was not scared, as it all felt like a big adventure, and I was extremely excited to be a part of it. Nonetheless, it took me years to adapt: first through the college, then through my early career in tech and education, and then through learning how to be American. For a while, I hated driving in American cities; I was constantly freezing from AC in every restaurant that I went to; I struggled to identify various American accents and misused countless English words; I couldn’t appreciate or understand American humor; I hated cilantro, and I was clueless about American politics. Once again, I managed and even learned how to make America my home.

Fast forward to 2017, after graduating from 2 universities, working for three different companies, changing five addresses, visiting 20 different states, and meeting many amazing people along the way, I was hungry for change again. In May 2017, I quit my job, packed a suitcase, and moved to Europe. Only this time, no matter how hard I tried to convince myself that this was just another adventure, it felt more like switching high schools again. It felt very uncomfortable. I barely knew anyone in Berlin and I couldn’t speak any German. I only had ten years of professional experience in the US and a resume I could send out to a bunch of companies in Berlin in the hopes that something matching my skills would transpire. Once again, it took me a little while to adapt to the change (and I’m still adjusting). Yet, now, after 2.5 years living in Germany, after switching two addresses, working for two companies, and visiting 13 different countries in Europe, I am hungry for a change again. Now that I can understand some German and as I’m starting to have more days where I feel like I’m in control vs. the days where I have no clue what is going on around me, I’m willing to pack my bags and leave everything behind and move once again? Have I become a change junky? Or is there something else at play?

Stay tuned!