Method chooser

Which approach fits?

Answer eight questions. You’ll get a starting point for a discussion with your team, not a verdict.

1. Are the requirements clear and stable?

Yes, well known Partly No, we’ll discover them

2. How costly is a change once work is built?

Very costly Moderate Cheap

3. Can you deliver useful pieces early?

No, it’s all or nothing Some parts Yes, easily

4. Can users give feedback often?

Rarely Sometimes Every week or two

5. How much regulation or audit applies?

A lot Some Little

6. Is the technology or solution new to you?

No, proven Partly Yes, new

7. Has the team worked in short cycles before?

No Some have Yes

8. Does your organization trust teams to decide?

Little Somewhat Yes

What the three approaches mean

• Predictive: plan up front, then build. Suits stable requirements and work that’s costly to change.
• Hybrid: mix the two, often predictive for the frame and adaptive for uncertain parts. The PMBOK Guide, 8th edition, says most projects benefit from some mix.
• Adaptive: plan in short cycles and learn as you go. Suits uncertainty and frequent feedback.

Next: Tailoring Your Approach · Scrum Sprints · Gantt Chart