Project Management Methodologies Comparison (11 PM Methods)

Quick summary:

Choosing the right project management methodology depends on your team’s goals, flexibility needs, and project requirements. From structured approaches like Waterfall to adaptable methods like Agile and hybrid frameworks, understanding these methodologies helps you align resources, meet deadlines, and achieve project success. This guide breaks down each approach to simplify your decision.

In the fast-paced world of project management, choosing the right methodology can mean the difference between success and failure. The right approach ensures your team is organized, deadlines are met, and resources are used efficiently—without burning out your people or sacrificing quality. On the flip side, the wrong methodology can lead to missed deadlines, miscommunication, and a frustrated team.

Whether you’re working within tight deadlines, managing projects with constantly shifting priorities, or guiding a team that values flexibility, understanding the different project management methodologies is crucial. The right methodology aligns your project’s structure with your team’s strengths and your organization’s goals, helping you deliver results more predictably and efficiently.

By the end of this article, you’ll know which project management framework best fits your needs and how to use it to streamline your process and set your team up for success. Ready to find the ideal approach for your next project? Let’s dive in.

What is project management methodology? Our definition

A project management methodology is a structured approach made up of principles, techniques, and processes that help organize, plan, and execute projects efficiently. Think of it as a toolkit or framework that guides teams in setting goals, defining steps, and managing resources to ensure successful outcomes.

There are many methodologies out there, each suited to different project types, teams, and organizational needs. Some methodologies, like Waterfall, follow a strict linear path, ideal for projects with clear deadlines and defined goals. Others, like Agile, are more flexible, allowing teams to adapt to changes quickly and foster collaboration. Each methodology brings its unique strengths, but the right choice depends on your project’s requirements, your team’s structure, and the goals you’re aiming to achieve.

Project management methodologies differ from project management tools. While a tool (like Asana or Trello) provides the digital platform for organizing and tracking tasks, a methodology offers the guiding principles to execute the work. Selecting a methodology is like choosing the playbook, while the tools are the equipment used to execute the strategy.

In essence, a project management methodology shapes how a project is handled from start to finish, impacting timelines, collaboration, and overall success. Whether you’re managing a team of developers on a tech build or coordinating a marketing campaign, choosing the right methodology is a critical step in aligning your team and achieving your goals.

What are the different types of project management methodology?

When it comes to managing projects effectively, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Different project management methodologies each bring unique strengths and structures that suit specific types of projects, team dynamics, and goals.

In this guide, we’ll break down some of the most popular project management methods, discussing their core principles, benefits, and potential drawbacks. Plus, we’ll share practical examples to help you decide which approach might work best for your team.

• Lean Methodology: Aiming to maximize value while minimizing waste, Lean is all about efficiency and continuous improvement.
• Kanban Methodology: Visualize your workflow and improve processes in real-time with this flexible, board-based approach.
• Scrum Methodology: A structured Agile approach focused on short, iterative “sprints” for quick feedback and adaptation.
• PRINCE2 Methodology: A process-oriented methodology popular in the UK and Europe, emphasizing structured project phases and thorough documentation.
• PMBOK (Project Management Body of Knowledge): A comprehensive guide covering best practices and standards in project management, ideal for complex or large-scale projects.
• Six Sigma Methodology: Highly data-driven, Six Sigma focuses on reducing errors and improving quality through statistical analysis.
• Critical Path Method (CPM): A scheduling-focused approach that helps determine the longest sequence of essential tasks to keep a project on track.
• Critical Chain Project Management (CCPM): An evolved version of CPM, CCPM accounts for resource constraints and aims to minimize delays.
• Waterfall Methodology: A linear, sequential approach best suited for projects with clearly defined stages and stable requirements.
• Scrumban Methodology: A hybrid of Scrum and Kanban, designed for teams that need both structure and flexibility.
• Extreme Project Management (XPM): Used for highly uncertain, high-stakes projects, XPM prioritizes flexibility and rapid response over rigid planning.

Project management methodologies comparison chart

Below’s table of our project management approaches gives you a quick overview of our 11 top project management techniques. We highlight some of the benefits and drawbacks of each PM method, or best and worst use cases.

Project management methodologies list (with examples)

Enough of the vestibule chatter, let’s enter the house of the most popular project management methodologies. This is the thorough and detailed list of our favorite PM techniques, where we’ll also try and give some project methodology examples in action for better illustrative purposes.  

Lean methodology

Lean project management is all about maximizing value while minimizing waste. Developed from Toyota’s “just-in-time” production model, Lean encourages teams to only use resources as needed, avoid overproduction, and prioritize efficiency.

This methodology involves continuously assessing and improving processes, which helps to reduce excess inventory, cut down on waiting times, and maintain a flexible workflow. By focusing on delivering value at each step, Lean empowers teams to stay adaptable and responsive to change.

When to use a lean project management approach

• Software development: Ideal for projects requiring quick iterations and updates, allowing developers to adapt based on user feedback.

• Research & development: Enables teams to experiment without rigid constraints, promoting innovation.

• Remote teams: Supports fluid collaboration across locations without strict timelines.

• Product development: Streamlines the process to quickly deliver high-quality products by removing unnecessary steps.

Advantages

• Reduces waste, saving time and costs

• Supports continuous improvement

• Highly adaptable to changing needs

Disadvantages

• Can struggle with task dependencies in complex projects
• Less effective in large-scale, traditional manufacturing
• May feel too unstructured for some teams

Lean project methodology example

Lean project management  is commonly used in software development, where iterative updates allow teams to release features or patches quickly, continually refining the product based on feedback.

Kanban methodology

Kanban is a visual project management system that falls under the Agile umbrella, designed to keep work organized and flowing smoothly. Using boards and cards, Kanban project methodology tracks tasks across different stages, typically organized as “to-do,” “in-progress,” and “completed.”

Each card represents a task, while boards help visualize the current status and progress of each item. Kanban’s flexibility and simplicity make it ideal for teams needing a lean, adaptable workflow.

When to use a Kanban board project management approach

• IT projects: Effective for tech teams managing ongoing or ad-hoc tasks.

• Small teams: Provides a clear overview for smaller teams to manage workload and stay aligned.

• Creative teams: Works well for teams with overlapping tasks, helping to manage stages like concept, design, and review.

• Product development: Suitable for iterating on features and prioritizing tasks based on urgency.

• Content marketing: Keeps editorial tasks organized, allowing teams to track each piece from drafting to publishing.

Advantages

• Encourages continuous flow of work, minimizing bottlenecks

• Easy to set up and adapt for various projects

• Visualizes workload, helping manage task distribution

Disadvantages

• Less suited for complex, dependency-heavy tasks

• Challenging for large-scale enterprise projects

• Requires consistent updates to reflect real-time progress

Kanban project methodology example

One great example of when to use the Kanban methodology is for creating creative content, like blog posts that combine texts and art. One lane can be for the writing, editing, approval of the text, while another lane can be for the concept, design, approval of the art. These two lanes can merge at the final stage which is the layout of the blog piece.

Scrum methodology

Scrum methodology is an Agile project management methodology that organizes work into short, focused cycles called sprints. Each sprint tackles a specific part of the project, encouraging rapid progress and regular reassessment. Scrum also includes daily check-ins (stand-up meetings) and roles like Scrum Master and Product Owner to keep the team aligned.

When to use Scrum project management approach

• Software development: Ideal for iterative coding and testing.
• Agile product development: Works well for developing features or updates in regular cycles.
• Small teams: Efficient for close-knit teams requiring regular communication.
• Issue tracking and bug fixing: Effective for managing ongoing issue resolution.

Advantages

• Facilitates quick problem-solving and adaptability

• Enables continuous feedback and improvement

• Ideal for projects with shifting requirements or goals

Disadvantages

• Can be challenging for projects with sequential dependencies

• Requires strict adherence to sprint schedules

• Less effective for projects in heavy manufacturing

Scrum project methodology example

A typical use case for Scrum is in software development, particularly for IT teams working on bug fixes or feature rollouts. For instance, each sprint could focus on resolving a set of bugs or developing a specific feature. Daily Scrum meetings keep the team aligned, while retrospectives after each sprint help refine future sprints for greater efficiency.

PRINCE2 methodology

PRINCE2 (Projects in Controlled Environments) is a project management methodology that structures workflows into manageable stages, providing a framework for strict control and accountability at each phase. Commonly used in large-scale and government projects, PRINCE2 project management methodology is especially useful in environments where clear documentation and well-defined roles are essential.

Developed with support from the UK government, PRINCE2 is popular in the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and parts of Western Europe. It emphasizes controlled progress through six core aspects: project scope, timescale, risk, quality, benefits, and cost.

When to use a PRINCE2 project management approach

• Project managers overseeing large teams: Ideal for complex projects requiring detailed oversight.
• Risk management: Structured to address and mitigate risks at each stage.
• Cost analysis: Suited for projects where budgeting is critical.
• Sequential project progress: Works best with projects requiring step-by-step execution.
• Iterative deliverables: Allows for phased delivery with clear checkpoints.

Advantages

• Strong control over project stages

• Effective for managing high-risk projects

• Supports clear cost analysis and budgeting

Disadvantages

• Less suitable for highly flexible or agile projects

• High-level project management structure may not fit smaller teams or experimental projects

PRINCE2 project methodology example

PRINCE2 is widely used in large organizations like IBM, HP, Siemens, and BAE Systems, where complex, multi-phase projects require meticulous planning and risk control.

PMBOK methodology

PMBOK, or Project Management Body of Knowledge, is a flexible framework used to standardize communication and processes in diverse projects. Rather than a strict methodology, it provides a shared set of practices and terms that help teams plan, execute, monitor, and close projects effectively. By emphasizing key stages like initiation, planning, execution, and monitoring,

PMBOK methodology is widely used to ensure consistency and collaboration across teams with different roles and expertise. It’s particularly helpful for aligning remote teams or managing projects with complex workflows.

When to use a PMBOK project management approach

• Varied project types: Suitable for industries requiring adaptable but standardized processes.
• Cross-departmental collaboration: Helps align teams with different roles and expertise.
• Detailed project scopes: Ideal for projects requiring precise documentation and structured workflows.

Advantages

• Creates a universal language for teams and stakeholders

• Provides a structured yet flexible approach to various project types

• Encourages accountability with clearly defined stages and roles

Disadvantages

• Less effective for repetitive or predictable projects

• May not suit highly agile or experimental workflows

• Can be cumbersome for smaller teams or projects with fewer moving parts

PMBOK project methodology example

An example of PMBOK in action is managing a large-scale marketing campaign involving diverse teams—content creators, data analysts, and advertisers—all working remotely. By using PMBOK principles, these teams can adhere to a shared set of terms and processes, ensuring seamless collaboration and consistent progress tracking across departments.

Six Sigma methodology

Six Sigma is a data-driven methodology focused on minimizing errors and inefficiencies in workflows. It uses a structured approach to identify potential issues early in the process, allowing teams to address them before they escalate into costly problems.

Six Sigma methodology divides its process into two key frameworks: DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) for improving existing workflows and DMADV (Define, Measure, Analyze, Design, Verify) for creating new processes. This makes it especially effective for projects requiring precision and quality control. 

When to use a Six Sigma project management approach

• Construction: Ideal for managing complex workflows with high accuracy requirements.
• Manufacturing and heavy industries: Ensures efficiency and error reduction in production processes.
• Large-scale enterprises: Helps streamline operations and improve overall quality.

Advantages

• Reduces costly mistakes by focusing on quality and efficiency

• Provides a structured framework for both new and existing workflows

• Works well for industries requiring precision, like construction or manufacturing

Disadvantages

• Not suited for creative or open-ended projects

• Can be too rigid for small or highly agile teams

• Requires significant training and expertise to implement effectively

Six Sigma project methodology example

A common use case for Six Sigma is in construction, where projects often involve multiple phases and strict quality standards. For example, it can be applied to manage the construction of a bridge, ensuring each phase—from material sourcing to structural testing—meets precise criteria to avoid costly rework or safety hazards.

Critical path method (CPM) 

CPM, or critical path methodology, focuses on identifying the longest sequence of dependent tasks within a project, known as the “critical path.” This approach ensures that essential tasks are prioritized and completed in a sequence that avoids delays in the overall timeline. By breaking the project into smaller, manageable steps, CPM enables precise scheduling and resource allocation, making it ideal for projects with multiple dependencies and strict deadlines.

When to use CPM project management approach

• Dependency-heavy projects: Perfect for workflows where certain tasks can’t start until others are completed.
• Time-sensitive projects: Helps prevent delays by optimizing scheduling and resource use.
• Large-scale construction and manufacturing: Ensures smooth transitions between phases to meet delivery deadlines.

Advantages

• Keeps projects on schedule by emphasizing task dependencies

• Reduces idle time and logistical delays

• Helps manage complex timelines with milestones and deliverables

Disadvantages

• Not flexible enough for agile or iterative projects

• Overly detailed for short or small-scale projects

• Can be resource-intensive to implement and monitor

Critical path project methodology example

A construction project, such as building a high-rise, benefits greatly from CPM. Tasks like laying the foundation, erecting the frame, and installing utilities all depend on precise sequencing. CPM helps ensure that each phase begins on time, resources are available when needed, and delays are minimized, keeping the entire project aligned with the planned timeline.

Critical chain project management (CCPM) methodology

Critical chain methodology (CCPM) expands on the principles of the Critical Path Method (CPM) by focusing on resource optimization and risk management throughout the project lifecycle.

Instead of only emphasizing task sequences, CCPM accounts for resource availability and buffers to manage potential delays. This makes it a more flexible approach, enabling teams to balance quality assurance and efficiency without derailing timelines.

When to use a critical chain project management approach

• Risk management: Ideal for projects where uncertainties need to be addressed proactively.
• Lifecycle planning: Useful for managing long-term, multi-stage projects.
• Resource-intensive projects: Ensures optimal use of available tools, manpower, and budgets.

Advantages

• Emphasizes risk management and continuous quality improvement

• Accommodates resource constraints effectively

• Provides flexibility for unexpected challenges without compromising the overall project flow

Disadvantages

• Less suitable for agile or iterative workflows

• May slow down fast-paced or high-pressure projects

• Requires robust upfront planning to implement effectively

Critical chain project methodology example

A common use case for CCPM is in setting up new corporate departments. For instance, planning the physical layout, procuring necessary equipment, hiring staff, and establishing workflows all require careful resource allocation and risk mitigation. By accounting for potential delays and resource conflicts, CCPM ensures each stage of the setup progresses smoothly without compromising quality.

Waterfall methodology

The Waterfall methodology is a traditional, linear approach to project management. It organizes work into distinct, sequential phases where one step must be completed before moving on to the next. Each phase typically includes requirements analysis, design, implementation, testing, and deployment, making it easy to track progress and maintain clear workflows.

This approach works best for projects with well-defined goals and processes, where the scope is unlikely to change mid-project. However, the rigidity of the Waterfall project management methodology can sometimes lead to delays, as teams must wait for one phase to finish before starting another, regardless of dependencies.

When to use a waterfall project management approach

• Structured, predictable projects: Ideal for initiatives with clearly defined goals and stable requirements.
• Large teams: Ensures all members follow a unified, step-by-step process.
• Minimizing risk: Reduces uncertainty by emphasizing upfront planning and clarity.

Advantages

• Provides a clear, step-by-step roadmap

• Works well for projects with minimal expected changes

• Simplifies management of large teams with specific roles

Disadvantages

• Inflexible to changes once the project is underway

• Potential for delays due to rigid phase dependencies

• Can result in bottlenecks between departments

Waterfall project methodology example

The Waterfall approach is widely used in software development, such as designing a new website with distinct front-end and back-end phases. For example, developers may finalize all design elements before beginning coding, followed by testing and implementation. It’s also effective for organizing marketing campaigns or planning large-scale events, both online and in-person, where clear steps and roles are crucial for success.

Scrumban methodology

Scrumban is a hybrid project management methodology that blends elements of Scrum and Kanban, offering flexibility for teams working on longer project cycles. Like Kanban, it uses a visual board to track task progress, but it incorporates some Scrum features, such as sprints, for handling high-priority tasks without disrupting the overall flow. This makes Scrumban ideal for dynamic projects that require ongoing maintenance and iterative development.

Scrumban methodology focuses on continuous workflow while allowing teams to introduce short bursts of concentrated effort when necessary. Its emphasis on backlog management and task prioritization ensures that teams can balance immediate needs with long-term objectives effectively.

When to use a Scrumban project management approach

• Ongoing projects: Perfect for continuous workflows like maintenance and gradual feature rollouts.
• Backlog management: Ensures teams can prioritize and address outstanding tasks.
•  Flexible task prioritization: Allows high-priority work to take precedence without disrupting the workflow.

Advantages

• Combines the flexibility of Kanban with the structure of Scrum

• Allows for sprint-based prioritization when needed

• Ideal for balancing maintenance and development

Disadvantages

• Not ideal for projects that have strict task dependencies

• Requires strong teamwork and communication to manage hybrid elements effectively

Scrumban project methodology example

Scrumban is particularly effective for software maintenance projects that run alongside the gradual rollout of new tools or features. For instance, a development team could address technical debt and bug fixes while simultaneously implementing minor feature updates, ensuring continuous progress without sidelining critical maintenance tasks.

Extreme project management methodology

Extreme project management  (XPM) is a highly flexible approach designed for projects where outcomes and processes are uncertain, and adaptability is key. Unlike traditional methodologies, XPM doesn’t rely on predefined milestones or rigid structures. Instead, it encourages teams to embrace uncertainty, innovate, and respond dynamically to changes as they arise.

This methodology thrives in environments focused on exploration and creativity, such as research and development or highly experimental projects. However, XPM may not be ideal for projects with tight deadlines, fixed budgets, or heavily involved stakeholders, as its lack of predictability can introduce challenges in these areas.

When to use an extreme project management approach

• Research and development: Perfect for projects where goals evolve over time.
• Creative processes: Ideal for brainstorming, design iterations, and artistic endeavors.
• Experimentation: Supports teams exploring new ideas or uncharted territory.

Advantages

• Encourages innovation and creative problem-solving

• Highly adaptable to changing goals and circumstances

• Suited for projects without rigid requirements

Disadvantages

• Not ideal for projects with strict deadlines or budgets

• Can lead to misalignment with stakeholder expectations

• Lacks structure, which may result in inefficiencies

Extreme project methodology example

A classic example of XPM in action is extreme programming, where developers address issues, integrate user feedback, and iterate on features in real-time. Similarly, XPM can be applied to exploratory projects in R&D, such as testing new technologies or experimenting with novel creative concepts, where flexibility and adaptability are paramount.

Deciding which project management methods and techniques to use

When choosing your project planning methods, there is a good list of questions you should ask yourself, and it's a smart idea to pose them in the right order. Having all your terms laid out is well advised, as it will help you land on the right methodology and the right project management techniques for knocking down tasks.

What are the project goals

The first thing to know when deciding which project planning methods are right for you and your team is setting milestones and goals. What are the ultimate aims of the project? A new product? A construction? A digital asset?

Who is the project team

Next you need to understand your team. Do you work together in an office or remotely? Is this a one-department project or interdepartmental? How dependent will each team member be from the others?

What are the project timeframes

Not only do you need to know when the project should end, but you should have a good idea of the optimized scheduled dates for some of the main stages of a project, even if those are simply going from nailing down the concept, to making it happen, to rounding up testing and feedback. This leads to the next step.

Are there project phases 

Here's where you’ll eventually need to make the decision how agile your project will be throughout its lifecycle. If you end up using the waterfall technique or CCPM, for example, you’ll want to know exactly what kind of stages your project will require before completion.

What is the project budget

Perhaps it’s not so much a question of what the project budget is, but how important it is to make one and stick with it. Is there room for experimentation? Or how much budgetary slack is there in case a mistake is made and the project stalls? If you have less slack, you might want something more like PRINCE2 or CPM.

Do I need a professional

This might not be one of the most obvious questions when picking a project management methodology. However, there are official project management certification programs from organizations like the Project Management Institute (PMI), associated with the PMBOK method. Many agile project management approaches like Scrum, Kanban and lean do not require any certification. 

Integrating project management methodologies and tools

Implementing a good software project management methodology is key to project success. 

PM methodology apps perform tasks like scheduling, issue tracking, project portfolio management, document management, resource management, costs and budgeting, as well as offering many teamwork tools for collaboration and communication. Many of these PM tools offer Kanban boards, Scrum boards, Gantt charts, calendar views, and even task and to-do lists with dependency workflows.

We've done a thorough project management software comparison elsewhere. Here we’ll touch on a few apps and talk a bit more about general strategy.

There are some notable PM software that most people already know. Trello is one example of a great Kanban board app. You can also easily set up triggers and rules for automations. Trello is made by Atlassian, which also makes Jira, a fantastic issue tracking project management tool.

Wrike is also worth mentioning. It’s really useful for total project management workflow optimization and also has great analytics and project reporting. LiquidPlanner, meanwhile, is amazing for timeframes and scheduling and has some decent Gantt chart functionality. Asana also mixes up dashboards like Kanban, Gantt and calendar views. Finally, some special shout outs go to Monday.com, Zoho Projects and Teamwork.

When choosing a project management system you need to have some basic questions ready to answer. For software, you’ll need to know how much you are willing to spend. Who will be the main user of the software and how big their team will be. Some PM tools have free plans or just free trials, which is a great way to test out an app to see if it’s right for your project management needs.

However, as is always the case, if you like the software you are using, you’ll probably want to eventually invest in a more premium package with the better features. They often include advanced automations, analytics, roles and permissions, and integrations.

Once you’ve chosen a project management solution, integrating it into your team requires both good data cleaning as well as training and onboarding sessions for all its users. The more time you spend in advance feeding the system good data and letting everyone learn its tools and processes, the more time you’ll save later on when your projects are underway with the management help of great PM software.

What is the best project management methodology for me? Our conclusion

Clearly, we cannot dictate to you, dear reader, which project management technique will be optimal for your project needs. But here are a few quick key takeaways. If you have strict scheduling and budgeting or stakeholder involvement, you should think about something like the waterfall method or one of its more complicated cousins like the critical chain or critical path method.

Then again, if you are a light and nimble team facing down more unknowns in your project lifecycle with more flexibility, Kanbans, Scrums or lean project management methods might be a better place to start.

We’ve come to the end of the road along this project management methodology comparison journey. Has it been worth it? Did you learn something new?

No? Well then, pat yourself on the back for being so knowledgeable. For the rest of us who have learned some great things about project management methods, it’s time for a break. Let's plan a project that puts happy hour as its goal.

FAQs on PM methodologies

What are formal project management methodologies?

A formal project management methodology is a technique that is based on simple and traditional project management. This entails being clear about planning, scope, milestones and goals, as well as what materials, labor and timeframes are required. Formal PM techniques can be either agile or something like the waterfall method.

What are the most modern project management methodologies?

There are many more modern project management techniques beginning with the Kanban board system and Scrum methodology. Modern PM is often lean and agile as opposed to more traditional rigid project management. A very modern example of project management is extreme project management or XPM.

Is project management philosophy and methodology the same thing?

Project management philosophies are not exactly the same as project management methodologies whereas the latter dictate processes and protocols for planning and executing projects. A proper project management philosophy can use different methods because it's more focused on high level values like company beliefs, best practices or even employee experience.