Paper (15): Better Buying Power through the use of Agile Acquisition Strategies
Abstract: Projects and organizations are moving from traditional plan-driven framework, with results delivered in years and projects behind schedule, over budget and delivering less than fit for use outcomes; to an adaptive framework. This framework, Agile, is designed to deliver small packets of capability with clear outcomes, usually called sprints or modular development. Initiatives that embrace Agile also require flexibility and innovation in contracting approaches, and can help lower costs, shorten procurement lead times, and increase delivery speed and capability. Contracting practices and modular development strategies for IT investments need to be aligned. This paper will discuss how the alignment and knowledge of agile assists the acquisition team to determine when it’s best to use Agile acquisition and when its best to use traditional methods, and thus benefit from better buying power.
Biography: Dr. Julie DeSot, PMP, PMI-ACP, is a Professional Development and Project Management Coach, Instructor, and Consultant. With over 20 years experience, Dr. DeSot helps individuals and organizations improve their performance through process improvement, professional development, and consulting. Training topics include project management, agile, leadership, management, team, and processes. Julie has been a project manager as a government contractor supporting TSA, US Marine Corps, and US Navy, as well as many public organizations, and is an affiliate with Management Concepts. She provides coaching to her clients in a trusted advisor role, which include organizations, individuals and small business owners. Dr. DeSot received her Project Management Institute (PMI), Project Management Professional (PMP) certification in 2004 and her PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (PMI-ACP) in 2015; and received her Doctoral in 2010 from the University of Maryland University College.
