Agile prototyping in construction and project management

Abstract

The Agile Prototyping model represents a new approach and tool for Project, Program, and Portfolio Management (PPM) within the Agile Project Management. Using agile methodologies such as prototyping can help project teams to identify potential issues and make changes early in the process, improving project outcomes. Agile prototyping involves creating a functional prototype or model of the project in an iterative and incremental way, allowing the team to test and refine the design before construction begins. This article aims to explore the benefits and challenges of using agile prototyping in construction especially in the scope of Project Management.

The primary objective of the agile prototyping model is to enable companies to provide value to their clients more frequently, respond swiftly to changes, and ultimately enhance their business performance. This methodology is particularly useful for breaking down complex projects into manageable tasks and completing them in short iterations throughout the project life cycle, which encompasses all phases from the initiation to the completion of the project.

While the agile prototyping model is flexible and adaptable to most projects, it is common for companies to resort to predictive models when dealing with projects that involve high levels of design complexity and significant scale. Architecture and construction companies frequently utilize this model to significantly enhance and improve the quality, durability and uniqueness of their designs [1].

History

The agile prototyping tool is part of the agile model. A model with a project management approach focused on adaptability and customer satisfaction. The Agile model emphasizes short-term planning and uses iterations or sprints to divide the project life cycle into manageable tasks. This model can be applied to almost any project, but it is particularly useful for complex projects where flexibility is crucial.

It was created in 2001 with the launching of the Agile Manifesto [2]. 17 professionals in the scope of software developping gathered together and drafted the Agile Manifesto . They stated 4 principles for agile management to assist companies in creating better software: Individuals and interactions over processes and tools, working software over comprehensive documentation, customer collaboration over contract negotiation and responding to change over following a plan.

Agile model

The agile model consist of sprints or iterations with the following stages in the depicted order:

1 - Planning.

2 - Design.

3 - Testing.

4 - Realease.

If the result is not the expected as the main goal, the process stages will start over again (unlimited amount of sprints), until achieve the final product result aimed.

The agile methods satisfy high product quality, customer satisfaction, reduce risks and better and faster ROI (Return on Investment).

Principle for successful Agile Project Management

- Customer is satisfied.

- Shortening time between planning and delivery.

- Managements and developers work together for better understanding.

- Accepting stakeholders changes, even late in the development phase.

- Better cordination with team members.

- Monitoring of project progress at each iteration and finding solutions wherever needed.

- Trust and support the team to complete project objectives.

- Efficient and effective method of conveying information within development team.

Agile Prototyping

Having provided a brief overview of the Agile Model, the Agile Prototyping tool is utilized within the Agile Model to create and test prototypes of a product or service, resulting in multiple advantages and positive outcomes.

The following are the steps for sprints and iterations involved in Agile Prototyping:

1. Identify the user requirements: The first step in Agile Prototyping is to identify the user requirements for the product or service being developed. This involves gathering information from the client on what they expect from the final product.

2. Create a prototype: Once the user requirements have been identified, the next step is to create a prototype. This prototype should be a working model of the product or service, which can be used to test and refine the design.

3. Test the prototype: After the prototype has been created, it is important to test it. Testing involves evaluating the prototype's performance against the user requirements identified in step 1. Any discrepancies between the prototype and user requirements are noted and used to improve the design.

4. Refine the prototype: Based on the feedback from the testing, the prototype is refined. The refinement process involves making changes to the design to ensure that it meets the user requirements identified in step 1.

5. Repeat the process: The process of creating, testing, and refining the prototype is repeated until the final product is developed. This process can be repeated several times until the design meets the user requirements and is deemed acceptable.

The above steps can be repeated in short iterations until the final product is developed. This approach allows for the rapid development and testing of prototypes, resulting in a final product that meets the user requirements and is delivered in a timely and efficient manner.

Agile Prototyping in Construction and Architecture

Agile prototyping has been increasingly used in architecture and construction as a way to improve the design and construction process, resulting in more efficient and effective projects. By using the agile prototyping approach, architects and construction professionals can collaborate more closely with clients and stakeholders, incorporate feedback and make changes throughout the project lifecycle.

One way in which agile prototyping is used in architecture is by creating physical or digital models of the building design early in the process. These prototypes can help architects and clients visualize and refine the design before the construction process begins. The prototypes can be used to test different design options, experiment with materials and lighting, and identify potential issues before construction begins.

In the construction process, agile prototyping is used to develop and test building systems and materials. For example, 3D printing can be used to create prototypes of building components, such as wall systems or mechanical systems, allowing for testing and refinement before final construction.

Agile prototyping has also helped in streamlining the construction process by enabling faster decision-making and problem-solving. By using agile prototyping, construction teams can identify issues earlier in the project, allowing for quicker resolution and reducing the likelihood of costly delays.

Overall, agile prototyping has proven to be a valuable tool for project managers, architects and construction professionals in the design and construction process. It has allowed for more collaboration, improved design, faster decision-making, and a more efficient construction process, resulting in better projects and happier clients.

References

[1] Agile Prototying course 41938, DTU (Technical University of Denmark), proffesor Tim Pat McGinley.

[2]. A brief history of the agile methodology. Inforworld, United States.