Abstract
The transformation of project management approaches in the oil and gas industry is becoming increasingly crucial amid digitalization and the global transition to sustainable energy. This article examines the role of Agile and Waterfall methodologies in managing IT projects within Kazakhstan’s oil and gas sector. The purpose of the article is to analyze the application of Agile and Waterfall methodologies in the management of IT projects in the oil and gas sector of Kazakhstan, to identify their advantages and limitations in the context of digitalization and to substantiate the feasibility of implementing adapted hybrid project management models. The study is based on a comprehensive literature review, which enabled the identification of theoretical foundations, practical applications, and limitations of both methodologies, as well as their potential for integration in the local context. The research methodology is grounded in content analysis, comparative evaluation, and synthesis of international and Kazakhstani sources, allowing for a balanced consideration of global best practices and regional specificities. The findings demonstrate that Agile methodologies provide flexibility, iterative value delivery, and enhanced collaboration, while Waterfall ensures compliance, predictability, and accountability. Despite Waterfall's dominance in Kazakhstan due to regulatory and organizational traditions, the gradual introduction of hybrid models offers new opportunities to improve project outcomes. The article concludes that a tailored hybrid framework could play a pivotal role in supporting Kazakhstan’s digital transformation in the energy sector while ensuring compliance with international and national standards.