AgilePM8 min read · February 2026

What is AgilePM? A Complete Beginner's Guide

AgilePM is the world's most widely adopted Agile project management framework. Learn what it is, how it works, and why it's different from Scrum and other Agile methods.

Ashish Dhoke

AgilePM — short for Agile Project Management — is a structured, governance-focused framework for delivering projects using Agile principles. It is based on the DSDM (Dynamic Systems Development Method) framework and is accredited by APMG International.

Unlike Scrum, which focuses on team-level delivery, AgilePM is designed for the entire project lifecycle — from business case to final delivery — making it suitable for organisations that need Agile with corporate governance and formal accountability.

Where Did AgilePM Come From?

AgilePM is built on DSDM, which has been in use since 1994 — predating the Agile Manifesto by nearly a decade. Over time, DSDM evolved into a comprehensive project delivery framework balancing Agile thinking with enterprise-grade structure.

ProjectingIT is India's first Accredited Training Organisation (ATO) for AgilePM — meaning our training meets APMG International's strict quality standards.

The Eight Core Principles

AgilePM is guided by eight principles that shape every decision on a project:

  • Focus on the business need
  • Deliver on time
  • Collaborate
  • Never compromise quality
  • Build incrementally from firm foundations
  • Develop iteratively
  • Communicate continuously and clearly
  • Demonstrate control

AgilePM vs Scrum: Key Differences

AspectAgilePMScrum
ScopeFull project lifecycleSprint / team level
RolesPM, Sponsor, BA, Tech LeadPO, Scrum Master, Dev Team
GovernanceBuilt-in, formalMinimal
Best forEnterprise, regulated environmentsSoftware development teams
CertificationFoundation + PractitionerCSM, PSM

The Certification Pathway

Level 1

Foundation

  • 50 multiple-choice questions
  • 40 minutes, closed book
  • Tests knowledge of concepts

Level 2

Practitioner

  • Scenario-based questions
  • 2.5 hours, open book
  • Tests real-world application

Who Should Take AgilePM?

  • Project managers transitioning to Agile delivery
  • Business analysts working in Agile environments
  • Programme and portfolio managers
  • Team leaders and delivery managers
  • Anyone seeking a globally recognised Agile PM certification

Want to go deeper?

ProjectingIT offers instructor-led AgilePM® Foundation Certification training with a 95% first-attempt pass rate. As India's first ATO, we provide officially accredited training that prepares you for both exams.

Learn more