Adaptive Planning

Adaptive Planning within Agile frameworks, as covered in the PMI-ACP certification, is a progressive approach to project planning that embraces change rather than resisting it. Unlike traditional predictive planning where detailed plans are created upfront, adaptive planning acknowledges that requirements evolve and plans need frequent adjustment. In adaptive planning, teams create high-level long-term plans but develop detailed plans only for near-term work. This allows for responsiveness to changing priorities, emerging requirements, and new insights. The plan evolves iteratively as the team learns more about the product and customer needs. Key characteristics of adaptive planning include: 1. Rolling wave planning - Detailed planning for upcoming iterations while maintaining a broader vision for later phases 2. Continuous replanning - Regular adjustment of plans based on feedback and new information 3. Just-in-time elaboration - Detailing requirements only when necessary for implementation 4. Empirical approach - Using actual performance data to influence future plans 5. Customer collaboration - Involving stakeholders in planning decisions to ensure value delivery Practical implementation involves techniques like release planning, iteration planning, daily stand-ups, and reviews that allow for course correction. Teams use visual management tools such as burndown charts, kanban boards, and information radiators to track progress and make planning adjustments visible. The PMI-ACP emphasizes that adaptive planning requires a mindset shift from following a fixed plan to embracing a flexible journey guided by the project's goals. This approach ultimately leads to better products that truly meet customer needs, as teams can respond to market changes and incorporate learning throughout development.

Adaptive Planning within Agile frameworks, as covered in the PMI-ACP certification, is a progressive approach to project planning that embraces change rather than resisting it. Unlike traditional pre…

Concepts covered: Lean Principles, Kanban System, Progressive Elaboration, Customer Collaboration, Scrum Methodology, Value-based Prioritization, Empirical Control, Change as a Constant, Emergent Design, Rolling Wave Planning, Responding to Variability, Feedback Loops