Put yourself in the role of a project manager collaborating with MTD, an events company.
Considering the difficulties and problems that MTD encounters in their projects, what insights have you gained this week that could offer assistance?
If an iterative approach were employed in organizing an event as a project, what would be the consequences? Similarly, what are the implications of adopting an agile approach? If the company sought your advice, what would you recommend?
Contribute your thoughts and ideas to the discussion.
MTD is an events company where each event is unique and styled differently. As such, a single approach may not always deliver the desired outcome. The choice of method depends on the specific task or challenge at hand. For instance, if the client’s design and preferences align with something we’ve previously executed, a linear approach may be appropriate. However, when dealing with new or evolving requirements, an iterative approach becomes more suitable. Ultimately, the nature of the project and a clear understanding of the tasks involved will guide the selection of the most effective approach—whether it’s linear, iterative, or a combination of both.
As a project manager, I will deploy the best project method after thorough research with my team and also have an open mind to unforeseen challenges that may arise in the course of the project knowing too well that no two projects are the same.
As a project manager working with the MTD, I will first identify and analyse the problem using the VUCA(volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguousness) framework tool. Afterwards, I would recommend the agile(iterative) approach since it is the responses to volatility and uncertainty, and it also give room for adjustment thereby reducing risk, waste, time, and increase effectiveness.
Hi Team,
Given the fast-paced and ever-changing nature of our events, adopting an iterative approach by breaking projects into manageable cycles could help us identify risks earlier, adapt more quickly, and improve the overall quality of our delivery. This would also allow us to test ideas, gather client feedback sooner, and make necessary adjustments without waiting until the final stages.
Building on that, an agile approach offers even more flexibility and collaboration. By working in short cycles (sprints), holding regular check-ins, and involving clients continuously, we could improve efficiency, reduce last-minute stress, and strengthen client relationships.
To explore this further, we could start small, piloting these methods on a few projects—before expanding more broadly. I’d also suggest looking into basic agile training and using tools like Trello or Monday.com to support the transition.
MTD is as an events company — and each event comes with its own styles and uniqueness . This means that application of single approach may not give the desired results. Depending upon the problem or tasks being undertaken any of the approaches maybe applied. Eg if the client design and choice is what we have worked on before I will definitely consider Linear approach while iterative will be considered when it’s the other way round. The identification and understanding of the tasks and kind of project determines the best approach and whether you can combine the approaches
Victor Anita
As a project manager for MTD, I would apply iterative and agile project management approaches to address common challenges such as tight deadlines, changing client needs, and coordination among multiple stakeholders. An iterative approach would allow for continuous improvement and flexibility during event planning, helping the team adapt to changes more effectively. Agile methods would promote collaboration, regular feedback, and quicker problem-solving. My advice to MTD would be to adopt agile practices such as sprint planning, regular reviews, and cross-functional team involvement to improve efficiency and client satisfaction in event delivery.
The world is a complex place, and no definite project method can be used. First you have to use the VUCA framework to know about the volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguous nature of a project before going ahead with it. This helps to decide the approach for the project.
There will be minimal consequences. Only depending on one approach may not give the desired results. Using a mixed or hybrid method helps to prevent such consequences
As a Project Manager, I will implement an iterative approach, which involves breaking down the project into smaller, manageable phases or sprints. This enables the team to assess progress, incorporate feedback, and make necessary adjustments throughout the project lifecycle. For instance, during the setup of a large-scale event, if a sudden venue change occurs, an agile framework allows the team to reallocate resources and adjust plans swiftly, ensuring minimal disruption.
As a project manager working with MTD, I will get information by communicating with the MTD in charge to know the challenges. After knowing the challenges, then use the VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous) framework tools to determine the challenges and use agile and linear approaches to solve the problem.
As a PM in MTD, i will understand the fact that no approach is in competition, i will understand the type of project i want embark on and know which approach is more preferable and also applying VUCA framework whenever i am stucked and understanding the fact that agile approach reduce a lot of risk.
As a project manager working with the MTD, after communicating with the team members and identifying the problems by using the VUCA framework tool, I would rather suggest using/applying the agile and the iterative approach to help manage the complexity and uncertainties.
The iterative approach gives room for adjustments and reduces risk.
Meanwhile, the Linear approach is for a stable environment, while the iterative approach is for an unstable environment.