Read the following scenario. Then, answer all questions in this assignment based on the information contained in the scenario. If you make any assumptions when answering a question, please state them clearly.
Scenario: Airport Customer Relations Management System
A local airport has recently upgraded its infrastructure to be able to accommodate international flights. Airport management is expecting an influx of tourists. To ensure the all-round success of this new endeavour, a heavy emphasis is being placed on keeping visitors to the airport as satisfied with the airport and its amenities as possible. To aid in maintaining good customer relations, the airport has decided to invest in the development of a new Customer Relations Management System, which would be accessible online via kiosks strategically placed around the airport as well as a downloadable mobile application.
The new system is envisioned to offer customers the following:
1. Information: updates on flights, airport amenities and services available at the airport;
2. Navigation capability: GPS navigation to various amenities and boarding gates;
3. Instant connection to medical and ambulatory services for any medical emergency.
You have been awarded the contract for the development of the Airport Customer Relations Management System. At the contract signing, you heard a rumour that one of the executives is known for being indecisive and therefore changes his mind frequently. He is also responsible for ultimately signing the new system into operation, so as far as possible, you will need to accommodate his changes. In the same breath, you have been told that should you deliver this system earlier than anticipated, you will receive a sizable bonus. The one thing, though, that has been constant in all of your communications with the various stakeholders is that due to the size of the investment in the project, there is no room for failure, and the system has to be at the top of its class..Discuss the Agile approach to development and motivate whether this
methodology will be suitable for the development of the Airport Customer Relationship Management System or not.
(40)
Your discussion has to address the following:
1. A description of the key features of the Agile development approach.
2. A description of how an Agile development approach will impact your project management approach.
3. A motivation as to whether the Agile approach will be a suitable approach for developing the Airport Customer Relationship Management System.
Each component of your answer needs to be related to the scenario.
1. Key features of Agile development approach:
- Iterative and incremental development: Agile development involves breaking down the project into small increments and continuously delivering working software throughout the project. This allows for feedback and adjustments to be made early on in the development process.
- Collaboration and communication: Agile promotes close collaboration between team members, stakeholders, and customers throughout the development process. This helps ensure that the project is aligned with stakeholder expectations and requirements.
- Flexibility and adaptability: Agile is known for its ability to adapt to changing requirements and priorities. This is achieved through regular meetings, reviews, and adjustments to the project scope as needed.
- Customer involvement: Agile emphasizes the involvement of the customer throughout the development process, ensuring that the final product meets their needs and expectations.
2. Impact of Agile development approach on project management approach:
- Project management in an Agile environment is more iterative and adaptive compared to traditional project management methodologies. It involves close collaboration with stakeholders, continuous communication, and flexibility in responding to changes.
- Project managers in an Agile environment will need to focus on facilitating team collaboration, managing stakeholder relationships, and ensuring that the project delivers value to the customer.
3. Motivation for using Agile approach for developing the Airport Customer Relationship Management System:
- Given the rumor that one of the executives is known for being indecisive and frequently changing his mind, an Agile approach would be beneficial as it allows for flexibility and adaptability. The project can accommodate changes in requirements and priorities throughout the development process.
- The potential for receiving a sizable bonus for delivering the system earlier than anticipated aligns with the iterative and incremental nature of Agile development. Early delivery of working software allows for feedback and adjustments to be made, potentially accelerating the project timeline.
- The emphasis on no room for failure and the system needing to be at the top of its class aligns with Agile's focus on delivering value to the customer. By involving customers throughout the development process, the system can be tailored to meet their needs and expectations, ultimately ensuring its success.
Based on the scenario, the Agile approach would be a suitable methodology for developing the Airport Customer Relationship Management System due to its emphasis on flexibility, adaptability, customer involvement, and delivering value to stakeholders. The Agile approach can help navigate the challenges posed by the executive's potential indecisiveness and the high stakes involved in the project.