The Application of Agile Project Management Principles for Library IT

Abstract

This research overviews pragmatic principles of Agile project management techniques for library IT projects and project teams in academic and research library environments. It is oriented towards implementing agile project management methods and tools in academic library IT projects ranging from creating technology-enhanced learning commons to digital library and archive creation to managing largescale digitization, creation of data repository infrastructures and digital media labs.

The article overviews pragmatic online collaborative software tools (established and upcoming) and larger contextual principles of Agile methodologies within a wider project management field. The larger thesis contends that for the best success of Agile methods, these methods must be grounded in firmly established project management methodologies. This synergistic pairing leverages the best potential for progress within larger frameworks towards the highest chances of success for achieving desired project results on time, in scope and in budget.

Principles, tools and methodologies are overviewed including scrums, sprints and kanban focusing on library IT and Agile project management, communication techniques and tools. The business case for an Agile Project Managers is reviewed. Speculation is then directed towards the future efficacy of Agile Project Management methodologies for increasingly complex 21st century projects and the larger AI paradigm shift currently occurring within society and library IT projects.

Keywords: Agile Project Management, Library Project Management, Library Information Technology, Agile Methodologies, Agile Principles