The four agile project management (PM) characteristics include high customer interactions, flexible scope, embracing change, and self-organized project teams. In agile methodology, the customer has complete documentation of what is being done in the project. A high customer interaction features improved customer relations with decision-makers as they are actively involved in initiating, planning, reviewing, and testing the product (Carr, 2017). In a traditional approach, the project manager has complete control of the project, and other parties do not make significant decisions. The agile approach facilitates team members to view the project’s progress from start to end, thus improving transparency. The methodology can develop a healthy working environment between the customer and manager, improving customer satisfaction.
The flexible scope in agile methodology allows for an adaptable approach during the project. The flexibility in the agile approach differs from the traditional method, which follows a top-down structure. The non-linear function in agile methodology enables changes to be accommodated without affecting the project schedule and results (Larson & Gray, 2018). The adaptability favors managers in complex projects where a change in one stage can cause an effect on another (Carr, 2017). In a flexible scope, managers can take calculated risks as there is a chance of high adaptability. Team members can tweak the project to suit customer specifications as it focuses more on the product than following a rigid structure.
The agile methodology embraces change; thus, developers can respond to customer requests quickly as they form small parts of the project. The customer can validate the change before the final project is presented. Project managers and customers can readily adjust the project process, eventually resulting in job customization. Projects can be altered at any point in the project lifecycle to meet the client’s needs, thus bringing alignment to the project execution.
The last agile methodology feature entails implementing self-organized project teams. A company’s employees are controlled via groups rather than a single line of command (Larson & Gray, 2018). The teams communicate with one another to discuss projects and link processes as they are not self-sufficient. This level of ownership and accountability differs from the traditional methodology, where the project manager takes control of the entire project (Carr, 2017). Each team member shares project ownership under the agile methodology. Each team member actively participates in finishing the project in the allotted time. Unlike traditional project management, everyone involved in the project can view the progress from start to finish.
China is rich in traditions and distinctive customs as its one of the world’s oldest civilizations. It is my preferred destination for my international project due to its numerous opportunities; thus, I intend to respect the country’s culture and traditions. The first custom entails using both hands when offering business cards to show others courtesy and respect. This is especially crucial when younger individuals or those of lesser status offer cards to elder individuals or those of higher rank (Gui Su, 2019). The second custom entails giving gifts to employees or friends. I have learnt that one should be careful not to give an odd number of presents as it is considered an unlucky number.
One should refrain from giving presents in black and white color as they symbolize death. Moreover, one should never gift a clock as a gift as the phrase represents burying a person (Gui Su, 2019). The third custom entails respecting people’s personal space. Physical contact with strangers is considered disrespectful as they are reserved for family or close friends. In addition, exchanging greetings with strangers is not common in Chinese culture.
References
Carr, K. (2017). Agile project management vs. Traditional project management. Knowledge Hut Blog.
Gui Su, Q. (2019). Chinese hospitality customs. ThoughtCo.
Larson, E., & Gray, C. F. (2018). Project management: The managerial process (7th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Education.