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Simon Buehring

What is PRINCE2 Agile?

PRINCE2 Agile is a project management methodology that combines the governance of PRINCE2 with the flexibility and responsiveness of Agile approaches. It enables organisations to deliver projects more effectively by integrating structured project control with iterative delivery techniques.
What is PRINCE2 Agile?
Contents

Introduction to PRINCE2 Agile

PRINCE2 Agile is a hybrid project management methodology developed by Axelos that combines the established governance and control elements of PRINCE2 with the adaptive, flexible practices of Agile frameworks. It is widely used for managing projects across industries in ways that embrace iterative development, collaborative teams, and adaptive planning.

Defining PRINCE2, Agile and PRINCE2 Agile

What is PRINCE2?

PRINCE2 (Projects in Controlled Environments, version 2) is a project management methodology based on best practice principles for project governance, roles, processes, and controls. It was developed to provide a universally applicable structure for running projects of any size.

What is Agile?

Agile refers to a group of methodologies, such as Scrum, Kanban, and AgilePM, that focus on incremental delivery, collaboration, responsiveness to change, and customer feedback. Agile frameworks are commonly associated with software development but are increasingly used across various sectors.

How PRINCE2 Agile Integrates PRINCE2 and Agile

PRINCE2 Agile integrates PRINCE2’s project governance and management principles with Agile tools and techniques, enabling structured yet flexible project delivery. PRINCE2 focuses on what needs to be delivered, while Agile determines how it will be delivered and how teams collaborate. This combination allows for adaptability without compromising on control or quality.

Key features and principles of PRINCE2 Agile

  • Governance: Maintains clear roles, responsibilities, and processes aligned with PRINCE2.
  • Tailoring: Adapts the methodology to fit project type, size, and environment.
  • Collaboration: Emphasises team communication using Agile practices such as daily stand-ups.
  • Iterative delivery: Encourages incremental project progress typical of Agile frameworks.
  • Focus on value: Aligns project outputs closely with stakeholder needs and business objectives.
  • Flexibility: Supports rapid change adaptation through iterative approaches like Scrum and Kanban.

Benefits of PRINCE2 Agile

  • Combines strong project direction with rapid, adaptive delivery.
  • Helps teams manage project risk while remaining responsive to change.
  • Widely recognised certification that enhances career prospects for project managers, scrum masters, product owners, and team leads.
  • Applicable to a range of industries including IT, construction, finance, and healthcare.

Certification structure: Foundation and Practitioner levels

PRINCE2 Agile certification is managed by AXELOS and delivered by Knowledge Train and other accredited training organisations. There are two main certification levels:

  • Foundation level: Introduces basic concepts, ensuring awareness of the fundamentals of PRINCE2, Agile, and their integration. The exam focuses on knowledge and comprehension.
  • Practitioner level: Develops advanced skills to apply and tailor PRINCE2 Agile to real-world projects. The exam tests application and analysis abilities.

Certification process and exam structure

Candidates typically undertake formal training through an accredited training organization, followed by an online or classroom exam. The Foundation exam is multiple choice, while the Practitioner exam involves scenario-based questions. Examination standards and costs are established by the certification body (AXELOS). Syllabuses are updated periodically to align with industry practice.

Who should get PRINCE2 Agile certified?

This qualification is suitable for project managers, team leaders, Scrum Masters, Product Owners, business analysts, and any professionals involved in project delivery using PRINCE2, Agile, or hybrid approaches.

PRINCE2 Agile compared to other frameworks

Framework Approach Focus Best for
PRINCE2 Structured, sequential (Waterfall) Governance, project control All sizes and types of project
PRINCE2 Agile Hybrid Governance with flexibility Organisations needing both control and adaptability
AgilePM Agile Iterative delivery, flexibility Projects requiring rapid response
Scrum Agile Team collaboration, sprint delivery Development-focused projects
Kanban Agile Flow management, visualisation Continuous delivery environments
Waterfall Linear/sequential Predictability, fixed scope Simple, well-defined projects

While PRINCE2 focuses on structure, and Agile on adaptability, PRINCE2 Agile enables organisations to reap the benefits of both. Like AgilePM, but unlike Scrum, or Kanban, PRINCE2 Agile places greater emphasis on project-level governance and clear roles, making it ideal for larger or more complex projects.

Core entities and terminology

  • Project management methodology: A set of principles and practices for delivering projects effectively.
  • Project framework: The structure guiding project processes and controls.
  • Governance: Oversight ensuring project objectives align with business needs.
  • Roles and responsibilities: Defined positions ensuring accountability in project delivery.
  • Tailoring: Adapting the methodology to suit specific project environments.

FAQs

What is the PRINCE2 Agile certification process?

The process involves choosing an accredited training organisation, completing the relevant training, and passing an online or classroom exam at the Foundation or Practitioner level.

Is PRINCE2 Agile certification valuable?

Yes, PRINCE2 Agile certification is increasingly valued across sectors for its combined focus on governance and flexibility. It demonstrates the ability to manage projects with both structure and adaptability, enhancing career prospects.

How does PRINCE2 Agile differ from standard PRINCE2?

PRINCE2 provides structured project governance, while PRINCE2 Agile adds Agile tools, techniques, and mindset to support iterative, customer-focused delivery. PRINCE2 Agile enables projects to adapt to change more readily than standard PRINCE2.

What is the exam structure for PRINCE2 Agile?

The Foundation exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes with a 55 percent pass mark. The Practitioner exam presents scenario-based questions over 2.5 hours. Materials and question types may vary between certification bodies.

What are some practical applications of PRINCE2 Agile?

PRINCE2 Agile can be used in IT projects, software development, product delivery, construction, finance, and healthcare, especially when both strong project governance and adaptability are required. It supports diverse roles from project managers to Agile team members.

IT Learning Library™ online training

PRINCE2 Agile and Agile methodologies for project delivery

PRINCE2 Agile combines PRINCE2 agility with Agile methodologies, offering a clearly defined framework for project delivery. Agile project management and PRINCE2 and Agile methods blend Agile principles, Agile methodology, and PRINCE2 practices. Project management PRINCE2 integrates Scrum, PRINCE2 Agile toolkit, and Agile with PRINCE2 for effective project teams. The PRINCE2 Agile methodology uses Agile prince2, PRINCE2 Agile foundation, and PRINCE2 practitioner techniques for applying Agile principles. PRINCE2 Agile principles and PRINCE2 Agile framework support Agile project management and risk management. Scrum and Agile, PRINCE2 foundation, and PRINCE2 project management underpin successful project delivery and portfolio management.

AXELOS and ILX support for PRINCE2 Agile learning

AXELOS and ILX provide official manual PRINCE2 Agile, digital downloads, and blended learning formats. Options include hardcopy, elearning, or blended routes, with access via bookstore or website menu. Buy, register, view basket, or browse for certifications and exams. The duration, price, dates, and information are available for individuals and organisations. Apprenticeships, events, training courses, and corporate solutions are tailored for different sectors, including health, government, and public services. Methods, themes, and sprints enable easy understanding, with guidance and news for managers and teams. PRINCE2 and Scrum Master certifications are suitable for anyone wanting to benefit from higher project agility and official recognition.

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