The Navy’s Strike Planning and Execution Systems Program Office (PMA-281) recognized the need to adopt Agile methodologies to enhance project management efficiency and delivery capabilities. However, as a government entity with established protocols and complex operational requirements, NAVAIR’s The PMA-281 team had significant questions about how to effectively implement Agile practices within their unique environment.
Challenge
PMA-281 faced several challenges common to government organizations attempting Agile transformation:
- Navigating Agile implementation within government frameworks
- Training diverse teams with varying technical backgrounds
- Integrating contractors into the new methodology
- Ensuring consistency across multiple interconnected teams
- Adapting Agile principles to fit defense-specific requirements
Solution Approach
UMBC Training Center’s Center for Leadership and Innovation (CLI) responded to PMA-281’s needs with a comprehensive approach:
- Expert Consultation: CLI facilitated initial meetings and brought in a specialized Agile instructor with dual expertise in Agile methodologies and government operations. As a Defense Acquisition University (DAU) instructor, this expert provided tailored insights addressing PMA-281’s specific concerns.
- Training Strategy Development: A customized training plan was created targeting both the PMA-281 team and their collaborating teams, including contractors. This approach ensured alignment across all stakeholders.
- Multi-tier Training Implementation: The training strategy included:
- Agile Fundamentals for all team members
- Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) for Teams for operational staff
- SAFe for Government for leadership and those in governance roles
Implementation
Beginning in 2023, UMBC Training Centers executed the training plan through a series of structured courses:
- 8 Agile Fundamentals classes establishing core concepts across the organization
- 3 specialized SAFe for Teams courses for implementation-focused personnel
- Training delivered to over 200 PMA-281 employees across multiple teams
Results
Through this targeted training program, PMA-281 has established a foundation for sustainable Agile transformation. The inclusion of both PMA-281 and collaborating teams has created a consistent understanding of Agile principles across organizational boundaries, positioning PMA-281 for successful implementation of Agile methodologies within their government operations context.
Ready To Begin Your Agile Transformation?
Any organization can successfully begin an Agile transformation with the right strategy and tailored training plan. If you want to explore what an Agile transformation could look like for your organization, contact our team below: