Is a Project charter needed if we are using an Agile Framework?

— Perhaps an agile one —

A project charter is a document that outlines the critical information about a project, including its purpose, objectives, stakeholders, and key deliverables. There are two main types of project charters: traditional and agile.

Traditional project charters are typically used in a Waterfall project management methodology, which is a linear and sequential approach to project management. In this methodology, a traditional project charter will include a detailed project plan outlining the project’s specific tasks, milestones, and deliverables. This approach follows a rigid schedule and timeline, with each project phase completed before moving on to the next.

On the other hand, Agile project charters are used in an Agile project management framework, which is a flexible and iterative approach to project management. Agile emphasizes collaboration, adaptability, and the ability to respond quickly to change. In an Agile project, the project charter is used as a high-level guide, outlining the overall goals and objectives of the project rather than a detailed plan.

The main difference between the two is the plan’s level of detail and rigidity. A traditional project charter is more detailed and specific, while an Agile one is more high-level and flexible.

In a traditional project charter, the project manager is responsible for creating a detailed project plan and ensuring that all team members follow it. In an Agile project, the project manager is more of a facilitator, working with the team to identify and prioritize tasks and ensuring that everyone is working towards the overall goals and objectives of the project.

Another key difference is the approach to changes and deviation from the plan. In a traditional project, changes to the plan are discouraged and can cause delays and budget overruns. However, in an Agile project, changes are expected and embraced as part of the process.

Sections of an Agile Project Charter include:

• Project name
• Owner
• Purpose
• Scope
• Success criteria
• Team
• Stakeholders
• Users
• Resources
• Constraints
• Risks
• Know milestones

In conclusion, while both traditional and Agile project charters serve the same purpose of outlining the essential information about a project, they are used in different project management methodologies. They have different levels of detail and flexibility. A traditional project charter is more detailed and specific, while an Agile project charter is more high-level and flexible, catering to the collaborative and adaptive nature of Agile projects.