Program Management in Agile

Since program management comes from Waterfall, it may initially seem that it can not coexist with Agile. From the start, the goal of program management was to provide the overall structure and strategic direction for related projects delivered using a traditional sequential approach, where any changes can become quite expensive and thus not welcome, especially later in the process. Conversely, Agile provides the flexibility and responsiveness needed to quickly adapt to changing circumstances and deliver high-quality software. However, if implemented correctly, combining program management and Agile can help ensure a program is flexible, responsive, and focused on providing value to customers. 


To successfully implement Agile within a program management framework, it's important to do the following:

#1 Develop a clear program vision and strategy: This will help ensure that all projects within the program are aligned with the overall goals and objectives.

#2 Establish effective communication channels: This includes regular check-ins with project teams, stakeholders, and program sponsors to ensure everyone is on the same page.

#3 Implement Agile methodologies that work for your program: This may involve adapting the Scrum, Kanban, SAFe frameworks, etc., to meet the specific needs of your program.

#4 Provide training and support to project teams: This will help ensure that everyone understands the Agile approach and knows how to implement it effectively.

#5 Continuously monitor and adapt: Program management and Agile require constant monitoring and adaptation to ensure the program is on track and delivering value.

#6 Use Agile metrics to track progress: Agile metrics such as velocity and burn-down charts can be used to track the progress of individual teams which are part of one program. This can help program managers to identify potential roadblocks or areas where additional resources may be needed.

#7 Incorporate Agile feedback loops: Agile methodologies emphasize the importance of continuous improvement and feedback loops. Program managers can incorporate these concepts into program management by regularly reviewing progress, identifying areas for improvement, and making changes to the program as needed.

Also, Agile can help program management to bring more positive feedback:

#1 Agile can help with prioritization: Work can be prioritized based on its potential to deliver value to the customer. This can be particularly useful in program management, where there may be several projects competing for resources.

#2 Agile can help with coordination: Because Agile emphasizes continuous feedback and communication, it can help ensure that all the projects in the program are aligned with each other and the overall business strategy.

#3 Agile can help with risk management: Agile involves frequent testing and prototyping, which can help identify and mitigate risks early on in the program.

#4 Agile can help with stakeholder engagement: Agile involves continuous feedback and collaboration with stakeholders, which can help ensure that their needs and expectations are being met throughout the program.

In summary, Agile can be a valuable approach to program management, particularly when there are multiple projects and teams involved. By emphasizing flexibility, adaptability, and continuous feedback, Agile can help program managers better prioritize, coordinate, and manage risks and resources, while also ensuring that stakeholders are engaged and satisfied with the program's outcomes.