Erica HawkinsProject Management ProfessionalChicago, IL, United States
As an entry level project manager, I do not have much experience with deciding on the overall methodology to use on projects. For the most part, I follow the framework set forth by the project managers and learn what I need to and gain valuable experience along the way. However, have other more tenured professionals needed to adapt to using more than one methodology?
I'm not an IT project manager nor have knowledge of software development. Yet, I am interested in Agile, specifically Scrum. What I want to know is if spending ample resources certifying towards Scrum training worth the effort if I do not practice software development? Is there room in IT for a project manager that is not a developer? Saving Changes...
Erica,
I would suggest looking into the DASM (Disciplined Agile Scrum Master) certification. DASM isn't actually specific to Scrum per se but rather focuses on selecting the best delivery model for a specific project context. It provides a toolkit to with things like criteria that would steer you towards Scrum, or even traditional waterfall projects.
As someone new to the field and lacking the experience to base independent decisions on the delivery approach, you may find it very valuable as a general overview rather than deep-diving one specific approach that may not fit your type of projects. I went through it after many years as a PM and found it valuable myself.
Keith Saving Changes...
Prior to looking at any type of certification, do some self-learning using the freely available resources provided by PMI and other sources. The Agile Practice Guide from PMI is a good starting point.
I'd then recommend trying to apply what you've learned to professional or personal projects first before pursuing a cert.
Finally, as Keith says, rather than locking yourself into the limited learning of a single framework (e.g. Scrum), take a broader view of adaptive delivery whether that is through Disciplined Agile or another agnostic toolkit.
Kiron Saving Changes...
Sergio Luis ConteHelping to create solutions for everyone| Worldwide based OrganizationsBuenos Aires, Argentina
All of them. You have to know that organizations are putting resources on creating solutions, where solution is equal to "the thing" (call it product or service or result depending on the needs) to be created plus "the way" (call it project) to create it. When organizations have a need then an initial evaluation on the need plus the enterprise architecture must be done to define the solution. Then, the first step is to select (think in a pyramid) the approach (lean, agile, etc), over it the process (waterfall, iterative, incremental, iterative-incremental (some people call it agile which is a big mistake), etc, over it the method/framework (SDLC, Scrum, DSDM, etc, etc) and finally the tool. Each layer supports the previous one. All these is on hands of the business analyst BUT in the "the way" component of the solution the project manager is the key. Then, first of all, my recommendation is do not buy the general confusion that is outside there about some of the previous terms and then be ready to work in any type of solution which it is defined. And all of these is not related to IT or software only. Saving Changes...
If you're currently working as a project manager, start by focusing on the approach(es) used at your employer. From there, start exploring. Developing a basic understanding of the many frameworks, methodologies, and other approaches (over time) can pay off as you grow in experience by enabling you determine the best approach for a given situation. Learn the rules so that you know how to break them and then get back on track afterward. It also wouldn't hurt to learn more about related topics like portfolio management, business analysis, quality assurance, and organizational change management, but don't try to do it all at once. Get good at what you do, and then look for ways to grow.
Keith mentioned Disciplined Agile (DA). There's a concept in DA that has different names in other approaches, but is very powerful - guided continuous improvement. Learn what this is and how to apply it to your career. Saving Changes...
Hi Erica Hawkins your question has been well answered by my peers above. From my end, I would like to add that I am a project manager with experience working in the Ed-tech sector. I managed projects which involved building learning and corporate training solutions. We used SCRUM, even though we weren't into software development. So, SCRUM can be used in different industries, provided it serves the business and achieves the project objectives. In addition, while exploring different project management methodologies, please try to understand it with an example as this can help you understand the distinct features and it is easier to remember as well. There are lots of free resources on Youtube that can explain this with interactive graphics. Saving Changes...
Building a successful career in project management requires more than just following a single methodology. It's about mastering adaptability and knowing when to apply Waterfall, Agile, or Hybrid approaches to maximize value. Each methodology has strengths, but the key to standing out as a project manager is understanding how to leverage them effectively based on the project’s context and stakeholder needs. For those early in their career, start by excelling in your organization's frameworks and methodologies. Build a strong foundation before exploring new approaches. Agile, for instance, is not limited to software development. Frameworks like Scrum can drive value in diverse industries where iterative progress and responsiveness are crucial. However, before investing in certifications like Scrum Master, immerse yourself in self-learning through resources such as PMI's Agile Practice Guide or interactive tutorials. You can test these concepts in your work environment or personal projects to make sure they have their practical implications. As you grow, consider tools like Disciplined Agile, which provides a comprehensive toolkit for tailoring methodologies to specific projects. This broad perspective will help you evolve beyond rigid frameworks, equipping you to balance structure with flexibility. Furthermore, strengthen your expertise by exploring complementary domains like portfolio management, quality assurance, and change management. These skills enhance your ability to lead projects that deliver results and sustainable business impact.
Saving Changes...
Jay DholakiaCo-Founder| SkillvergePune, Maharashtra, India
Hi, I think everyone has shared and elaborated well. I can summarize that it's a journey for the program where you, as a project / program manager, need to decide how you want to manage the project status - its journey from being "Fragile to "Agilie". Now, at what point in time will you move to the agility state, is based on the different situation. One has to adopt the right approach, tools, and processes, and bring the project to a successful closure. Saving Changes...
Luis BrancoCEO| Business Insight, Consultores de Gestão, LdªCarcavelos, Lisboa, Portugal
Erica Hawkins Thank you for sharing your journey so openly — your reflection shows a level of self-awareness and curiosity that’s foundational for a successful project management career.
What you’re asking is actually a critical question that many professionals face, even mid-career:
- Do we need to master multiple methodologies?
- And can Agile/Scrum be valuable outside of software development?
Let me offer a few reflections that might help:
- Yes — experienced project managers increasingly need to operate across multiple methodologies.
Hybrid approaches (combining elements of both predictive and adaptive models) are becoming the norm, especially in complex, fast-changing environments.
Being fluent in more than one approach isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s becoming essential.
- Is Scrum relevant beyond software?
Absolutely.
Scrum is, at its core, a framework for managing adaptive teams — not just for writing code.
I’ve seen it used effectively in marketing, HR, education, policy design, sustainability projects, and more.
The key is to adapt the roles and rituals to fit the team’s reality and goals.
- Should you invest in a Scrum certification?
That depends on your goals.
If you’re simply exploring Agile principles, there are excellent introductory courses available (Agile Fundamentals, Scrum Foundations).
But if you see yourself working in agile-oriented environments — even outside IT — a certification can boost your credibility and expand your options.
- Is there room for non-developers in IT project management?
Without a doubt.
Great PMs are not necessarily coders — they are facilitators of clarity, enablers of alignment, and stewards of value.
Many of the strongest project leaders I’ve worked with came from backgrounds like business, education, or operations — and leveraged that experience to navigate cross-functional dynamics more effectively.
A practical tip: alongside any certification, try to observe why certain methodologies are chosen on the projects you’re part of.
Ask senior PMs: - Why did we go with waterfall here?
- Could a more iterative approach have helped?
Developing that kind of contextual judgment is what sets strong PMs apart in the long run.
In short: you're asking the right questions, and you're already on the path to becoming a versatile, thoughtful, and impactful project leader.
Keep going — the industry needs more voices like yours.
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