HKSM
Empirical Process Control
Empirical process control guides decisions through observed results and purposeful experiments rather than heavy upfront planning. It stands on three pillars: transparency, inspection, and adaptation.
Key Points
- Decisions are evidence-based, using observation and experimentation.
- Transparency makes work, progress, and quality visible to all stakeholders.
- Frequent inspection uncovers issues and learning opportunities early.
- Adaptation adjusts plans, scope, and process based on what is discovered.
Example
A Scrum team works in two-week sprints with a visible board and a clear definition of done. At the sprint review and retrospective, they inspect delivered increments, metrics, and stakeholder feedback, then adapt the backlog and workflow for the next sprint based on what they learned.
PMP Example Question
Which situation best demonstrates empirical process control on an agile project?
- Creating a detailed plan at project start and executing it with minimal changes.
- Using short iterations with visible progress, regular reviews, and updating the backlog and process based on feedback.
- Freezing scope after collecting all requirements to prevent change later.
- Developing a fixed critical path schedule and discouraging modifications.
Correct Answer: B — Iterative work with transparency, inspection, and adaptation
Explanation: Empirical process control relies on visibility, frequent inspection, and adapting plans based on observed results and experiments, which option B describes.
