Implemenetation of agile methods : Why companies chose to implement agile methods in projects and operations

Compared to traditional project management methods, agile methods are new. The use of project work keeps increasing, including the number of projects, with varying characteristics. In a world with a growing speed of change and with growing demands, there’s a need for adjustment, something which agile methods offer. However, agile methods are not suitable for all types of projects. The aim of the study was to broaden the understanding of what motivates implementation and usage of agile methods in projects and operations, challenges and advantages that can emerge through implementation and usage of agile methods, and if expectations of agile methods were confirmed. The study was qualitative and was made through semi-structured interviews, which were recorded and later transcribed. Collected data was analyzed based on thematic qualitative analysis. A total of three analyses were made - one per research question. All together the three analyses resulted in a total of thirteen themes. Motives for working agile varied, whereas primary motives for implementing and working with agile methods were increased efficiency, increased participation, and increased visualization of work. During on-going implementation, knowledge and training was crucial, including management, employees and customers. Agile methods were adjusted to reality and operations. Customers wanted to take part in working with agile methods, while their knowledge was inadequate. Expectations that existed before the implementation were confirmed. Agile methods hold what it promises