Dear PMI Phoenix Chapter Members, 
We are finally getting to the end of a very hot summer and are looking forward to our Arizona Project Management Summit which is taking place virtually October 18^th and in person October 19^th. You can attend one or both, so mark your calendars and be watching for news on this exciting event. The PM Summit is a continued collaboration with the PMI Tucson Chapter and Arizona State University (ASU) PM Network as a result of the success of the inaugural summit last year. This is sure to build on the success of that summit! 

Our annual Board of Director elections are underway for your new board directors. Make sure to get your votes in before September 20^th.  

I wanted to call attention to the growing project management networks – the Yuma Changemakers and the Flagstaff PMI Network – that meet regularly outside of the Phoenix metro area. We continue to work to continue our outreach outside of the Phoenix Metro area. If you are interested in helping support new networks, contact Cynthia Ford at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

Did you know we have a PMI Phoenix LinkedIn Job Fair and a link to the PMI Job Board? If you’re looking for a job in project management or have a job to post, check out these resources. 

We have officially launched our Project Management Toolkit, an introductory guide to the field of project management. This Toolkit is a set of materials for volunteers and teachers to use in teaching students (and other!) about project management to use in schools or other organizations wanting to understand project management. 

Have you checked out our new Wellness Corner on our website? These short, easy to read, but insightful articles feature a perspective we all need in our work lives, a reminder to focus on wellness. If you have any articles you’d like to submit to the Wellness Corner, send them to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

I want to recognize the outstanding commitment of our volunteers. We are a volunteer-run organization, and it is remarkable what we can do with volunteers who have only a couple of hours a week or month to help. Through our volunteers, we have been able to offer exceptional programs and events, such as: 

• Offering our Credential Study Groups. These study groups have consistently helped individuals prepare for their PMP exams. This summer, a pilot group launched to prepare individuals for their CAPM exam. The feedback was so positive, we will be integrating a CAPM Study Group into our rotation of credential study groups available each year to help people prepare for either their CAPM or PMP exams.  

• Graduating from one Mentorship Program cohort on February 28. The next Mentorship Program cohort is preparing to begin on September 18.

• Hosting monthly speaker breakfast meetings that continue to routinely average 100 attendees – the variety of speakers and information offered for professional development is always exceptional. Check out our past breakfast meeting recordings in our webinar library. 

• In-person Phoenix Fusion Networking events that rotate around the Phoenix metro area monthly to engage members and recognize volunteers for their hard work. 

• Partnerships with PMI Authorized Training Partners and the International Institute for Learning (IIL). These partnerships bring you valuable training and professional development opportunities. 

Watch our newsletter, Facebook page, Instagram, LinkedIn, and website for details on all these programs and events, along with much more. If you are interested in volunteering, click here. 

To stay up to date on everything your membership provides you, keep an eye on our monthly calendar, as we add new speakers and events throughout the month. 

Thank you for joining the PMI Phoenix Chapter. You are a valued member, and I want you to get as much benefit from your membership as you can.  

Shane Cretacci 

PMI Phoenix Chapter Board Chair 

Introduction

Green building practices have become increasingly important in the construction industry as society prioritizes sustainability and environmental conservation. By incorporating these practices into building design, construction, and operation, we can reduce our environmental impact, conserve resources, and create healthier, more efficient buildings for future generations. From using sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems to minimizing waste and water usage, green building practices are essential for creating a more sustainable and resilient built environment. In this article, I will explore climate change, the impacts of climate change on buildings, how green building practices help mitigate climate change effects, examples of green building strategies, policy recommendations for encouraging green building practices, case studies on successful implementation of green building practices, and the future of green building in climate change mitigation.

Understanding Climate Change

Climate change is a pressing global issue that has profound implications for the construction industry and green building practices. The increasing concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, primarily from burning fossil fuels, are driving changes in our climate, leading to rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, sea-level rise, and other environmental impacts.

Green building practices are crucial in mitigating and adapting to climate change by reducing carbon emissions, conserving resources, and enhancing resilience. By designing and constructing energy-efficient buildings, using renewable energy sources, and minimizing waste, we can significantly reduce the built environment's carbon footprint and help slow the pace of global warming. Green building practices can also help buildings and communities become more resilient to the impacts of climate change. By incorporating features such as green roofs, rainwater harvesting systems, and passive heating and cooling strategies, buildings can better withstand extreme weather events and temperature fluctuations.

The Impacts of Climate Change on Buildings

Climate change significantly impacts buildings worldwide, posing numerous construction, maintenance, and operation challenges. One of the key impacts of climate change on buildings is the increased risk of damage from extreme weather events. Storms, hurricanes, and floods can cause structural damage, while high winds can lead to roof and facade failures. Buildings in areas prone to wildfires are at risk of destruction, while coastal buildings are vulnerable to erosion and flooding as sea levels rise. Higher temperatures resulting from climate change can affect building performance and energy efficiency. Buildings may experience increased cooling demands in hot weather, leading to higher energy consumption and costs. Heat stress on building materials, such as roofs and facades, can also reduce lifespan and require frequent maintenance and repairs.

Climate change also affects indoor air quality and occupant health within buildings. Higher temperatures can create uncomfortable living and working conditions, while increased humidity levels promote mold growth and indoor air pollutants. Buildings not designed to withstand changing climate conditions may struggle to provide occupants with a healthy and comfortable indoor environment.

How Green Building Practices Help Mitigate Climate Change Effects

Green building practices help mitigate the effects of climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption in buildings. Incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines in green buildings helps decrease reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon footprints. Using sustainable materials, such as recycled or locally sourced materials, in green construction reduces embodied energy and carbon emissions. Water conservation measures, like rainwater harvesting and low-flow fixtures, minimize water consumption and alleviate strain on water resources. Green buildings prioritize resilience and adaptation to climate change impacts, like extreme weather events, through features like green roofs and flood-resistant design.

Examples of Green Building Strategies

These strategies include passive design that harnesses natural elements like sunlight and ventilation to reduce the need for artificial heating and cooling, optimizing energy efficiency and indoor comfort. Energy-efficient Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems lower energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, with technologies like heat pumps and smart thermostats enhancing building performance. Solar panels generate renewable electricity on-site, reducing reliance on the grid, cutting carbon emissions, and potentially earning energy credits. Green roofs provide insulation, stormwater management, and biodiversity benefits, contributing to energy efficiency, water conservation, and urban sustainability. Water-efficient fixtures like low-flow toilets and gray water recycling systems help reduce water consumption, while Sustainable materials like bamboo flooring and reclaimed wood minimize environmental impact. Passive solar design maximizes natural light and heat gain in winter and minimizes heat gain in summer, enhancing comfort and reducing energy demand. Energy-efficient lighting with Light Emitting Diode (LED) fixtures reduces energy consumption, lasts longer, and lowers electricity bills, contributing to sustainability and a healthier built environment.

Policy Recommendations for Encouraging Green Building Practices

1. Mandate Green Building Standards: Governments should establish mandatory green building codes that require new construction to meet specific environmental criteria, focusing on energy efficiency, water conservation, sustainable materials, and indoor environmental quality.
2. Provide Financial Incentives: Offering tax credits, grants, or subsidies to developers and homeowners who utilize green building practices can help offset initial costs and incentivize sustainable design and construction.
3. Establish Green Building Certification Programs: Endorsing certification programs like Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) or Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) encourage buildings that meet high sustainability standards, providing market recognition and enhancing the value of green buildings.
4. Require Energy Performance Disclosure: Requiring building owners to disclose energy performance through audits or benchmarking promotes transparency and accountability, informing stakeholders about energy efficiency and encouraging green building practices.
5. Develop Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration between governments and private sector stakeholders can drive green building initiatives, fostering knowledge sharing, innovation, and investment in sustainable practices.
6. Support Research and Development: Allocating funds for research on green building technologies and methodologies to promote innovation, advance sustainable practices, and overcome barriers to adoption.
7. Incorporate Green Building Criteria in Public Procurement: Green building standards in public procurement policies encourage sustainability in government-funded projects, prioritizing contractors and suppliers committed to environmental performance.

Case Studies on Successful Implementation of Green Building Practices

Case Study 1: The Edge, Amsterdam, Netherlands

The Edge, a sustainable office building in Amsterdam, is renowned for its innovative green building practices. The building's features include smart lighting systems that adjust based on occupancy and daylight, energy-efficient HVAC systems, solar panels on the roof, and rainwater harvesting for irrigation. The Edge has achieved the highest sustainability rating (BREEAM Outstanding), demonstrating how green building practices can create a high-performance, energy-efficient workspace.

Case Study 2: One Bryant Park, New York City, USA

One Bryant Park, also known as the Bank of America Tower, is a leading example of green building practices in the United States. The building includes a high-performance facade, energy-efficient lighting and HVAC systems, rainwater harvesting for cooling, and an on-site co-generation plant that produces electricity and heat. One Bryant Park has achieved LEED Platinum certification, showcasing how sustainable design can reduce environmental impact and improve building performance.

Case Study 3: Pixel Building, Melbourne, Australia

The Pixel Building in Melbourne is a pioneering sustainable design and construction example. The building features a distinctive geometric facade of recycled timber and glass, passive design elements for natural ventilation and lighting, solar panels for renewable energy generation, and water recycling systems. The Pixel Building has received multiple green building certifications and demonstrates how innovative technologies and sustainable practices can create a low-impact, high-performance building.

Case Study 4: The Crystal, London, United Kingdom

The Crystal in London is a sustainable exhibition and conference center that showcases cutting-edge green building practices. The building features an energy-efficient facade, renewable energy sources, including solar panels and ground-source heat pumps, rainwater harvesting for irrigation, and smart building management systems. The Crystal has achieved BREEAM Outstanding certification and is a sustainability education and innovation hub.

Conclusion: The Future of Green Building in Climate Change Mitigation

In the face of escalating climate change challenges, the future of green building lies in innovation, collaboration, and commitment to sustainability. By adopting green building practices and embracing a holistic approach to sustainable design and construction, we can pave the way for a greener, more resilient future and make a meaningful contribution to climate change mitigation efforts. The future of green buildings is bright, and its potential impact on climate change mitigation is vast.

Author: Bode Adeyemi

Definition

A Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) is a process of assessing how well a building or space meets the needs and expectations of its users after they have occupied it for a while. This evaluation typically involves gathering feedback from occupants, analyzing data on building performance, and assessing whether the design and functionality of the space are meeting the intended goals. I will explore POE's purpose, methodologies, key components, and applications.

Purpose of conducting a POE

The purpose of conducting a POE in the building industry is to evaluate user satisfaction and identify areas for improvement to enhance user comfort and satisfaction. Additionally, POE helps identify performance issues related to energy efficiency, sustainability, and operational effectiveness, enabling optimization and cost reduction. POE also validates design decisions made during the planning and construction phases, ensuring that design goals are achieved and addressing discrepancies between design intent and user experience. Furthermore, insights from POE inform future design decisions and shape the design of future projects, allowing designers to create more successful and user-friendly spaces based on user feedback and data. Ultimately, conducting a POE helps enhance building performance, reduce operational costs, and create healthier and more comfortable spaces for occupants.

Methodologies for conducting a POE

The approaches and tools used in gathering feedback from occupants include conducting interviews with occupants to collect in-depth feedback, distributing surveys to gather quantitative and qualitative data, observing occupant behavior to gain insights, organizing focus group discussions for open dialogue, providing feedback forms for comments and suggestions, installing sensors and monitoring systems for real-time data collection, utilizing social media and online platforms for communication, and using building performance software to analyze metrics and generate recommendations for improvement.

Key components of a POE

The areas of focus during the evaluation process include assessing the functional performance of the building, evaluating indoor environmental quality in terms of air quality, acoustics, thermal comfort, and overall building performance metrics, examining energy efficiency such as HVAC and lighting, assessing sustainability features such as green building certifications, renewable energy systems, and sustainable materials, evaluating operational effectiveness and maintenance practices, gathering feedback on user satisfaction and experiences, and assessing the adaptability and flexibility of the building to accommodate future changes and evolving user needs.

Application of POE Findings

POE results provide valuable insights that directly inform design and construction decisions. By analyzing and interpreting data on occupant satisfaction, comfort levels, functionality of spaces, and overall building performance, designers and developers can compare data to standards, look for correlations between variables, and highlight the environment's strengths and weaknesses to identify areas that need improvement or modification in future projects. This feedback can guide decisions on layout, materials, lighting, ventilation, acoustics, and other design elements to meet users' needs and preferences better. Additionally, POE results can inform decisions on maintenance, operations, and sustainability practices to ensure the long-term success and efficiency of the building. Integrating POE findings into design and construction processes leads to more user-centric, responsive, and successful built environments.

Conclusion

A comprehensive understanding of POE is essential for assessing the effectiveness and performance of buildings and spaces. By delving into the key components of what post-occupancy evaluation entails and how it is conducted, we can unlock valuable insights that inform future design decisions, enhance user experience, and ultimately contribute to creating more functional and sustainable environments. Understanding POE empowers project managers, architects, designers, building owners, facility managers, researchers, and other construction professionals to continuously improve and optimize the built environment for its occupants and stakeholders.

Author: Bode Adeyemi

Who are Subcontractors?

Subcontractors are individuals or companies hired by a general contractor to perform specific tasks or provide services on a construction project. They are often called with different name variants, such as sub-consultants, trade contractors, specialty contractors, service providers

vendors, outsourced workers, independent contractors, trade partners, external partners, third-party contractors, or support contractors. They typically specialize in a particular trade or service, such as site preparation, structural and framing, drywall, plumbing, electrical, roofing, concrete, painting, etc. They are responsible for completing their portion of the project according to the specifications outlined in the contract. They work under the direction of the general contractor and play a crucial role in the successful completion of construction projects. However, managing subcontractors can be challenging due to their external nature and the need to coordinate multiple parties. To ensure subcontractors perform efficiently and effectively, construction project managers must implement strategies for managing them effectively. This article will discuss some critical strategies for managing subcontractors in construction projects.

1. Clear Communication: Establishing clear communication channels from the project's outset is important in relating with the subcontractors. This includes clearly defining project requirements, expectations, timelines, and deliverables. Regular communication with subcontractors will help ensure everyone is in sync and prevent misunderstandings or delays. Utilizing digital communication tools such as project management software or messaging apps can also help streamline communication and keep everyone informed of project updates.

2. Vendor Prequalification: Conducting a thorough prequalification process is essential before selecting subcontractors for a project. This involves verifying the subcontractor's credentials, past performance, and financial stability. Project managers can minimize the risk of delays, cost overruns, and quality issues by selecting reputable and reliable subcontractors. Additionally, prequalifying subcontractors can help ensure that they have the necessary skills and experience to complete the project successfully.

3. Contract Management: Establishing clear, detailed contracts with subcontractors is crucial for managing expectations and ensuring accountability. Contracts should clearly outline the scope of work, deliverables, timelines, payment terms, and dispute resolution procedures. Provisions for change orders, delays, and quality control measures in the contract are also important. Regularly reviewing and updating contracts can help prevent misunderstandings and disputes between the main contractor and subcontractors.

4. Performance Monitoring: Monitoring subcontractor performance is essential for ensuring project milestones are met on time and within budget. This involves tracking subcontractors' progress, quality of work, and adherence to project specifications. Key performance indicators (KPIs) such as schedule adherence, budget variance, and quality control measures can help project managers evaluate subcontractor performance. Regular site visits, inspections, and progress meetings can also provide insight into subcontractors' performance and identify any issues that need to be addressed.

5. Risk Management: Construction projects are inherently risky, and subcontractors can introduce additional risks. To effectively manage risks associated with subcontractors, project managers should conduct thorough risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies. This may involve identifying potential risks such as schedule delays, cost overruns, safety hazards, or subcontractor non-performance. Implementing licensing, insurance, bonding requirements, and contract indemnification clauses can help transfer risks to subcontractors and protect the main contractor from liability. Additionally, contingency plans for unexpected events or subcontractor failures can help mitigate project risks and ensure project success.

6. Collaborative Relationship Building: Building a positive and collaborative relationship with subcontractors is essential for successful project outcomes. Establishing a trust, respect, and teamwork culture can help foster productive relationships with subcontractors. This includes involving subcontractors in project planning, decision-making, and problem-solving processes. Maintaining open lines of communication, providing feedback, and recognizing subcontractors' contributions can help create a collaborative work environment and motivate subcontractors to deliver their best work.

7. Performance Incentives: Offering performance incentives to subcontractors can help encourage them to meet project objectives and exceed expectations. Incentives such as bonuses for early completion, quality workmanship, or cost savings can motivate subcontractors to perform at their best. Conversely, penalties for delays, safety violations, or substandard work can incentivize subcontractors to meet project requirements and adhere to contractual obligations. However, ensuring that incentives and penalties are clearly defined, fair, and enforceable is important to avoid disputes or misunderstandings.

8. Documentation: Project managers should document all communication, contracts, change orders, communication logs, meeting minutes, and progress reports. Documentation is a reference point for project stakeholders, helps monitor timelines & budgets, and ensures accountability. Maintaining thorough and organized documentation is essential for successful project management and can help resolve disputes, clarify expectations, and learn from past experiences.

9. Quality Control: Project managers should implement measures to ensure subcontractors meet specifications and standards. Regular inspections should be conducted to assess the quality of work and address any deficiencies promptly. By maintaining rigorous quality control standards, project managers can ensure that the final project meets the desired quality and safety standards.

10. Continuous improvement: Project managers should continuously evaluate the performance of subcontractors and seek feedback from all project stakeholders to identify areas for improvement and implement best practices in managing subcontractors. By learning from past experiences and applying lessons to future projects, project managers can enhance their subcontractor management strategies and improve project outcomes.

In conclusion, effective management of subcontractors is essential for completing construction projects. Project managers can ensure subcontractors perform efficiently and effectively by implementing clear communication, vendor prequalification, contract management, performance monitoring, risk management, relationship building, performance incentives, documentation, quality control, and continuous improvement to achieve successful project outcomes.

Author: Bode Adeyemi

What is Post-Project Evaluation?

Post-project evaluation is the process of reviewing and assessing a project's outcomes and overall success after completion. Other names include project review, project assessment, project post-mortem, project debriefing, project evaluation and review technique (PERT), project retrospective, project lessons learned, or project closure review. It involves analyzing whether the project achieved its objectives, delivered the expected results, stayed within budget, and met the specified timeline. This evaluation helps to identify lessons learned, best practices, and areas for improvement for future projects. It can also provide valuable feedback for project managers, project team members, stakeholders, subject matter experts, external consultants, evaluators, or real estate developers to assess the project's performance and make informed decisions for future projects.

How to conduct a post-project evaluation for continuous improvement:

1. Establish Metrics: This involves identifying key performance indicators (KPIs) aligned with project goals and objectives. Metrics include cost efficiency, timeliness, stakeholder satisfaction, and quality of deliverables. Data is collected using quantitative measurements, such as project costs and timelines, and qualitative feedback from stakeholders and team members. Metrics are tracked against predetermined benchmarks to assess project performance. Regular monitoring and analysis of metrics will inform decision-making and identify areas for improvement in future projects. Adjustments to metrics may be made as necessary to ensure an accurate evaluation of project success and effectiveness.

2. Collect Data: Determine the data sources needed, such as project documentation, stakeholder feedback, and performance reports. Select appropriate data collection methods like surveys, interviews, and observations to gather quantitative and qualitative data. Develop data collection tools like surveys and interview guides to gather information from stakeholders and team members. Ensure data accuracy and reliability by collecting data consistently and using standardized procedures. Analyze the data to identify trends, patterns, strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement. Summarize the findings using visuals like charts and graphs to present key insights. Conclude the project's performance and

success based on the data analysis. Use the data collected to develop actionable recommendations for continuous improvement, such as process changes or corrective actions for future projects.

3. Access Outcomes: This involves identifying successful elements that played a vital role in the project's overall success. Evaluate the challenges and obstacles encountered throughout the project lifecycle and analyze the strategies to overcome them. Understanding the impact of successful project elements on achieving desired objectives is crucial. Comparing the actual project outcomes with the initial expectations can help measure the project's effectiveness. Sharing the result with stakeholders will foster continuous improvement and ensure better project outcomes in the future.

4. Analyze SWOT: Analyzing Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats involves identifying project successes, areas for improvement, potential growth opportunities, and external risks. Strengths and weaknesses will be assessed based on project outcomes and performance against objectives. Opportunities may include new initiatives or partnerships that emerged during the project. Threats such as budget constraints or technological limitations will be considered when evaluating project sustainability. The SWOT analysis will provide a holistic view of the project's performance and impact, informing strategic decisions for future projects and enabling organizations to leverage successes and address challenges effectively.

5. Review Financial Performance: This involves analyzing project expenses, budget adherence, and return on investment (ROI). Actual costs will be compared against budget projections to assess financial efficiency and identify variances. Revenue generated from the project will be evaluated to determine its impact on overall financial performance. ROI calculations will be used to measure the project's profitability and cost-effectiveness. A financial review will inform future budgeting and resource allocation decisions, enabling organizations to optimize financial performance and maximize returns on investment in future projects.

6. Evaluate Stakeholders: This involves assessing stakeholder engagement, satisfaction, and impact on project outcomes. Stakeholder feedback is collected through surveys, interviews, and feedback sessions to gauge their perceptions of the project's success and effectiveness. Understanding stakeholders' expectations, concerns, and contributions will provide insights into their influence on project outcomes and relationships with the project team. Their feedback will be analyzed to identify areas for improvement in stakeholder communication, engagement

strategies, and relationship management. Considering stakeholder perspectives will enhance future project planning and implementation, ensuring alignment with stakeholder needs and expectations.

7. Lessons Learned: This involves identifying successful strategies, areas for improvement, and key takeaways from the project experience. Reflection on the project's strengths and weaknesses will inform decision-making for future projects. Analyzing challenges and setbacks will provide insights into how to mitigate risks and improve project outcomes in the future. Understanding what worked well and what could have been done differently will guide project planning, implementation, and evaluation improvements. Lessons learned will be documented and shared with stakeholders to promote a culture of continuous learning and enhancement in project management practices.

8. Develop an Action Plan: This involves analyzing evaluation findings to identify areas for improvement, setting specific objectives, and outlining steps and initiatives to implement continuous enhancements in future projects. Responsibilities will be assigned to team members based on their expertise, with clear timelines established for each action item. The action plan will focus on implementing lessons learned, refining processes, enhancing communication, and addressing any gaps or challenges identified during the evaluation. Regular progress reviews will be conducted to track implementation and ensure continuous improvement. The action plan will drive future projects toward greater efficiency and success.

9. Monitor Progress: This involves tracking the completion of evaluation tasks, ensuring adherence to timelines, and regularly checking in on the status of the evaluation process. Key performance indicators will be used to measure the success of the evaluation against predefined benchmarks. Regular communication among team members will facilitate coordination and address any potential roadblocks. Stakeholder feedback and input will be solicited to ensure the evaluation meets their needs and expectations. Adjustments may be made to the evaluation plan to keep the process on track to ensure that all objectives are met efficiently and effectively.

10. Give Recommendations: This provides actionable insights based on evaluation findings to improve future project outcomes. Recommendations include enhancing communication processes, refining project planning and execution strategies, addressing identified weaknesses, and capitalizing on successful practices. Clear and specific recommendations will be outlined, prioritized, and

assigned to responsible team members with defined timelines for implementation. Stakeholder feedback will also be considered to ensure that recommendations align with their needs and expectations. Regular monitoring and evaluation of the implementation of recommendations will support ongoing improvement and success in future projects.

Conclusion

Real estate developers and other professionals can enhance their project outcomes by conducting a thorough post-project evaluation, implementing necessary improvements, building stronger relationships with stakeholders, and driving continuous improvement in their development practices.

#RealEstateDevelopers #ProjectManagers #PostProjectEvaluationTips #EvaluationStrategies #ProjectImprovements #EvaluationBestPractices #ProjectManagement #ContinuousImprovement #ProjectLessonsLearned #EvaluationMetrics

Author: Bode Adeyemi

How do you decide which project management approach is best for your project? Let's review them to help you decide.

Waterfall 

The Waterfall method usually includes five project management stages (or phases): Initiation, Planning, Execution, Monitoring/Control, and Closing 

Waterfall is a linear form of project management ideal for projects where the end result is clearly established from the beginning of the project. The expectations for the project and the deliverables of each stage are clear and are required in order to progress to the next phase. 

Agile 

Agile project management is a flexible and iterative approach that enables teams to quickly adapt to changing project requirements and deliver high-quality results within shorter timeframes. 

Agile method is about teamwork, customer satisfaction, constant refinement, and breaking big projects into bite-sized pieces. By prioritizing collaboration and communication, agile processes enable teams to pivot and respond to evolving customer needs while maintaining a high level of flexibility. The focus on continuous improvement means that teams are always seeking ways to optimize their processes and deliver the best possible results. 

The Project Management style 

As the Project Manager you are responsible to select the correct method that will deliver the best possible result. The Project Manager needs to understand how the project is currently organized and the reporting process. Understanding of the requirements, timeline, deliverables, best company practices, management structure and individual contributors skills is key to develop the Project Scope Statement.  

Foundation of Waterfall and Agile 

The main difference is that Waterfall is a linear system of working that requires the team to complete each project phase before moving on to the next one, while Agile encourages the team to work simultaneously on different phases of the project. Does your project require strict regulations or requirements?  Waterfall is better suited for projects with regulations or requirements (Like formal Contract or DoD contract). The Agile process is mostly found in IT companies, that have requirements that allow some variability and the team can create a prototype and move fast and proceed in parallel in different phases. When choosing between Agile and Waterfall, consider how involved the project owners or stakeholders will be in the project. Agile is better suited for projects where stakeholders need to be closely involved every step of the way and require flexibility. Waterfall is more schedule focus with fixed dates and hard requirements.  

About the Author: Bruce Schwickrath, PMP 

PHX Mentorship Program Director 

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

BRUCE SCHWICKRATH   PMP  CSM  LSSMBB 

• Joined PMI in 2001,  and PMP certified 2005 
• Denver Chapter Member from 2001  
• Phoenix Chapter Member from 2017   
• Booz Allen Hamilton as Advisory Project Manager to the Navy DoD for 13 years  
• Chapter President of the Southern Maryland Project Management Institute (PMI) 
• Wrote parts of the PMBOK 5 edition 
• Leader/ Project Manager for the PMI 2010 Global Congress conference in (DC)  
• Presenter for Denver PMI Chapter for the Saturday 1/2 day monthly workshops at Regis University  
• PMI Global Knowledge Management Leader to the PMI Consulting Community of Practice 
• President and founder of the Southern Maryland Software Process Improvement Network (SPIN)