THEORETICAL PRINCIPLES OF THE FLEXIBLE PROJECT MANAGEMENT METHODS IMPLEMENTATION IN THE IT INDUSTRY

Abstract

The article explores the theoretical foundations of implementing Agile project management methods in the IT industry. It is shown that traditional cascade approaches lose their effectiveness in a dynamic environment, while Agile methodologies contribute to increasing the adaptability and sustainability of project activities. Flexible approaches to project management contribute not only to accelerating product creation, but also to increasing adaptability to change, improving team interaction, and forming a value-oriented work culture. The effectiveness of the implementation of flexible management frameworks largely depends on compliance with a number of theoretical conditions that contribute to the alignment between the structure of the organization, its internal culture and external challenges. Based on the analysis of modern professional standards and scientific sources, key organizational, managerial, and cultural factors that affect the effectiveness of implementing Agile practices are systematized. In particular, it is determined that for the effective functioning of Agile approaches, the organizational structure must be flexible enough to ensure prompt response to changes and decision-making at the team level. It has been established that the key management conditions that contribute to the effective implementation of Agile methods include servant leadership, strategic thinking, change management as a permanent practice, as well as the development of internal knowledge management mechanisms. The effectiveness of the implementation of these methods largely depends on the presence of a cultural environment in the organization based on openness, trust and support for the initiative. The article presents a four-level model that reflects the potential logic of transformation at different levels. This model involves the gradual introduction of Agile management methods with the possibility of combination, especially in large or high-risk projects. Its advantage is that it takes into account both formal aspects of management and behavioral and cultural factors that are often overlooked in other approaches.