Mastek’s Agile Project Management

Link: http://www.apmg-international.com/nmsruntime/saveasdialog.aspx?lID=4932&sID=6417

This case study discusses how the implementation of Agile Project Management methodologies has empowered teams at Mastek. Mastek is a high-end global provider of vertically-focused enterprise technology solutions and platforms. The company is publicly held with National Stock Exchange of India as NSE: MASTEK. It is a leading IT company with global operations providing enterprise solutions to insurance, government, and financial services organizations worldwide.

Using the agile approach has improved the way Mastek develops educational software products for key clients. Project Manager of Mastek Vishal Somal says “off-shoring represents huge opportunities for agile working. Agile PM helps deliver projects on time and to quality.” For an offshore organization such as Mastek, developing agile ways to deliver its products and services is a necessity. Vishal goes on to say that agile working consists of two principles: communication and transparency. Deciding to implement Agile PM has enabled Mastek to improve communication with clients and between on and offshore teams.

In a traditional project, project managers are more involved, directing work and telling their team what needs to be done. This style is often referred to as command and control or micromanagement. Each step in the traditional fashion is created by the team members and not by a Project Manager. In Agile PM, the early stages consist of a high level plan, based on outline requirements and a high level view of the solution to be created. From there the project is created iteratively and incrementally, building off each other.

For students who are interested in pursuing a career in Project Management, keeping up with the most innovative ways a project is conducted is important. Agile PM is one of these ways. This case study provides a real professional example of how the most innovative practices are being implemented and tested in the business world. Agile PM provides a strong framework to help guide MIS professional in the progress IT projects. Having knowledge of this topic can help MIS professional in effective decision making and collaborating.