Agile and Predictive project management are often treated like competing ideas, but PMI is clear that both approaches have value. The right choice depends on the stability of the work and how much change you expect during delivery.
Predictive works best when the requirements are stable and the path is clear. You define the scope, build the schedule, set the cost, and execute the plan. This approach makes sense for infrastructure projects, tower upgrades, network installations, or any job where you know what materials, manpower, and sequencing are required before you begin.
Agile is designed for situations where the end result will evolve over time. Work is delivered in small increments, feedback is gathered quickly, and adjustments are made as the team learns. Software development, website redesigns, and user-driven digital services benefit from Agile because the customer’s needs shape the direction throughout the project.
A good example comes from a rural Kentucky school district that needed a technology refresh. The infrastructure portion of the project was handled in a Predictive way because switch replacements, cabling, and hardware installation were clearly defined. At the same time, the district wanted a new parent portal. Nobody knew which features families would use until early versions were reviewed. That part followed an Agile approach, with quick prototypes, small updates, and real feedback guiding each iteration.
PMI’s guidance is simple. If the work is stable, use Predictive. If the requirements will change as you learn, use Agile. When a project has both, combine the two and use a hybrid approach. This is modern project management and it fits real projects across Kentucky, rural communities, and small organizations that need flexibility without sacrificing structure.
Leave a Reply