How Agile methodology improves software development
Erratic communications, inaccurate timelines, and cost overruns are all hallmarks of a poorly managed project - and not something anyone wants to deal with. Fortunately, with the right systems in place these hassles can easily be avoided.
A well-managed software development process leverages available resources for maximum efficiency and facilitates a great experience for all stakeholders. An effective and proven project management framework and methodology should be utilized for best results. Agile software development was designed to be just such a solution.
What is Agile project management?
The Manifesto for Agile Software Development was published in 2001 by a group of 17 software professionals. Their goal for the manifesto was to decrease the common inefficiencies in traditional software development methodologies by proposing a set of guiding values and principles for improved processes. These principles then evolved into a full framework for Agile project management.
Agile is an iterative and incremental approach to project management which has become very popular in recent years due to its clear effectiveness across many use cases. Agile projects are broken down into incremental pieces, allowing for frequent and recurring feedback and delivery cycles within short timeframes.
Agile methods vs. traditional methods
The traditional project management approach, also known as the waterfall methodology, maps out the entire project across one large timeline, beginning with an extensive planning and documentation phase. From there the product is fully built out, tested, and released.
With the Agile approach, planning, building, and testing are performed iteratively across multiple short cycles or sprints. Agile allows for a higher level of client involvement and feedback throughout the process. It has greater flexibility than traditional methods, since changes can be made more easily at any point.
A study by PricewaterhouseCoopers found that Agile projects are 28% more successful than those run in accordance with traditional project methodologies.
Agile methodologies
Within the Agile framework, three methodologies are most widely used today:
Scrum
With the Scrum methodology, a project is broken down into sprints (usually a few weeks in length) with each team member assigned specific tasks. The project owner gathers input from the end users and organizes it into a prioritized features list to guide what the team will focus on in the upcoming sprints.
Kanban
The Kanban methodology visually maps out a project across multiple columns on a Kanban board. A classic three-column board includes space for upcoming features, features in progress, and completed work. Items are pulled between the columns in a continuous workflow.
Scrumban
Scrumban combines the iterative process of Scrum with the workflow of Kanban to capitalize on the benefits of both methodologies. However, some advantages of each method must also be sacrificed in order to accommodate one efficient, unified workflow.
Scrum is generally considered best in cases where solid planning and progress tracking are a high priority, and Kanban is generally deemed best if an efficient workflow and rapid production are prioritized.
Benefits of Agile development
Greater flexibility and control
Agile software projects are more flexible than traditional development projects. Performance and progress are regularly tracked and reported during each work sprint, allowing for continuous refinement and easy reprioritization of features. The process is overseen by a product owner and transparent to all other stakeholders, allowing maximum control over both the process and the final outcome.
Higher quality final product
The micro-focus on each aspect of the software build, combined with frequent quality testing and review, allows for continuous improvement throughout the lifecycle of the project. This emphasis on each incremental result during the project maximizes the likelihood of an excellent overall result in the end.
Better aligned with business needs
The Agile approach ensures that client feedback is included at regular intervals throughout the entire process. This enables the client to weigh in on feature prioritization and ensures that the product is well aligned with business needs. The features are focused on real user needs and provide the highest possible value.
Shorter time to market
With the traditional approach to development, some team members may sit largely idle during the initial planning phase or other junctures as they wait for their assigned tasks to begin. With an Agile project, each large phase is broken down across short cycles, creating a streamlined workflow that increases efficiency and productivity. An optimized workflow ultimately reduces time to market for the product.
Reduced risk and uncertainty
Frequent quality testing and review means that errors are caught quickly and prior mistakes are not repeated. Ongoing refinements during the project also result in greater predictability of all factors, including costs and timeline. Iterative critical review and feedback reduce uncertainty and risk throughout the project.
Find out what Agile can do for you
At Basecode we always use Agile methodology for our software development projects. This ensures that you enjoy an efficient and effective build process, and receive the best possible product in the end. Find out more.