I'm currently researching the use of agile project management in non-software contexts. My goal is to understand if Agile/Scrum can be used in EPC projects.
Hi Jonna,
The premise of Agile is the iterative refinement of the design/implementation as time goes on. Each iteration being contained within a 2 week period (sprint).
I'm not convinced that this methodology would apply to the construction industry. Afterall, there aren't too many ways to build a bridge or a house. You always start with the foundations, you don't start the interior finishes of a house until the house is sealed and all the second fixes (plumbing, electrical) have been completed. It's a very linear development.
Furthermore, because of the need for planning before construction can start, the design work has to be completed before construction starts. You may refine some of the design as construction proceeds but, generally, these are only minor changes, with no impact on design as granted. I.e. interior walls might be moved a bit, electrics refined.
In electronic design, Agile methodologies can be applied to an extent. i.e. Prototype, schematics, layout, build, test each stage can be done in one or more sprints and sometimes in parallel i.e. One could prototype a given functionality, capture the results in a schematic design in sprint 1 and then in sprint 2 prototype a different functionality, capture those results in schematics while the first function might start on the layout.
In electronic design, the advantages of an Agile method are that as we prototype sub-functions of an overall system we gain a better understanding of the system constraints. One can also demonstrate early on the functionality and verify that they are what the customer wants. The challenges are mainly the risk of feature creep and the ensuing delays in going to production.
Just a few quick thoughts on the subject. I could give you more in-depth explanations on the pros and cons of Agile in electronic design if needed.
Jean-Michel Rubillon, thank you for taking the time to share your experience. It is interesting to hear different perspectives on this question. I have also been looking into Agile Project Management in the context of developing new hardware products. This seems to be an upcoming research field. I might be interested in hearing some more of your experiences on the use of agile in electronics design as my research progresses. May I contact you later on this matter?
On a side note, I have been in contact with a consultant who has used Agile/Scrum in EPC projects since 2011 and gives lectures on the topic. I have not spoken to him yet but I'm eager to hear about his experiences.
My current opinion is that all projects probably can learn something from Agile and it's frameworks such as Scrum. How much can be applied in new contexts and how, is likely to differ for each project and context.
Jonna, you're welcome to contact me at a later time to discuss this further.
Hi Jonna,
I think Agile can be used in EPC projects if the 12 principles are redefined for such projects. Consider the principle "Customer satisfaction through early and continuous project delivery"; this could be applied to construction projects with multiple units (like a compound). Instead of finishing painting, tiling, electrical, and plumbing works in all units, work could be finished on a unit by unit base.
However, need to assess the benefits of using Agile over traditional approach.
Good Luck,
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