Managing VUCA challenges with Agile Project Management

: focusing on Scrum

Abstract

This thesis delves into the role of Agile Project Management (APM) and specifically the Scrum Methodology when dealing with challenges such as VUCA (Volatility; Uncertainty; Complexity; Ambiguity) challenges. The need for adaptive project management approaches in a fast-paced business environment is present. Agile and Scrum have become popular tools for addressing unforeseen events due to their flexibility and collaborative nature. Through 13 in-depth, qualitative interviews, several key findings were derived, which were analysed using the Gioia method. APM serves several critical success factors (CSFs) when dealing with challenges. These include embracing change, creating transparency, flexibility, and adaptability, while communicating and cooperating in a proper manner. These factors are supported by the application of APM and Scrum. Scrum is acknowledged as a useful tool in addressing VUCA challenges. This research provides aspects to further focus on when facing one of the VUCA situations. However, it is limited by the ability to distinguish between the challenges and thus identifying how to approach the four challenges differently. This hinders the full utilization of the VUCA model in relation to Scrum. Consequently, this research contributes both to academic circles and the industry by offering actionable insights on improving project management in turbulent environments.

Date of Award	26 Jan 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Duarte João Ferreira (Supervisor)