Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Why use Agile Methodology?
- Who should use Agile Methodology?
- Daily Meetings
- User Stories
- Testing
- Transparency
- Stakeholders’ Involvement
- Respond to Change
- Pros
- Cons
- Tools
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Introduction
So, what is Agile methodology and why should we use it?
Agile methodology is a framework used in software development which employs an iterative approach. The development and the required changes are done simultaneously throughout the process. Most of the time Scrum, which is an implementation of Agile, is utilized to achieve goals.
Scrum methodology consists of small tasks subdivided within the major one. The team sets up daily tasks, works on them, and after every 24 hours conducts a meeting regarding the developments. This way they all update each other of the progress and figure out the next steps.
ScrumMaster oversees the project overall, and the Product Owner reports to the ScrumMaster. Product Owner is the owner of the requirements and developments to be incorporated. The rest of the team reports to the Product Owner and works accordingly.
Unlike other approaches, Agile breaks the process into smaller segments and completes the process in steps. Iterations of each phase are completed before that step is accomplished. In each phase some level of the working product remains available to the customer hence the audience remains happy.
Why use Agile Methodology?
Agile methodology is a fast-paced approach where there are complete transparency and trust between the developer and the customer. This way the required changes can be implemented instantly and waste of time is avoided. This method works with projects that have a flexible timeline; although no time is wasted on marketing and writing down information, thus making the process more efficient.
Who should use Agile Methodology?
Almost every business should use this method as it saves both time and cost. Because no time is wasted on the overheads, the development is faster and smoother. And since time is spared, cost reduction is also achieved. More than 70% of companies are already using this methodology for development.
Since software development is a crucial part of almost every organization’s workflow and process, this approach works in all sorts of environments. It is much better than the traditional command and control approach, which decreases morale and motivation. However, most companies still work in a bureaucratic environment and prevent this method from being put to use, in turn reducing the potential for increased productivity.
Daily Meetings
In this process daily Scrum meetings are conducted where each team reports on the progress, discusses the problems that are faced and sets tasks till the next meeting the next day. Small tasks are set on each meeting which may be achievable within the span of a day.
User Stories
User stories are compiled based on the customers’ requirements and desires regarding the product so the team is clear on what to do. Suggestions are made to resolve the problem. And testing is conducted based on customer suggestions and needs.
Testing
The testing of the product has to be conducted several times before sending it to the customer. Without testing, incomplete and inaccurate products may be sent out thereby decreasing the level of customers’ trust upon the team.
Transparency
Complete transparency is maintained throughout the project. All the information and requirements are delivered by the customer to the team directly and the team reciprocates by providing updates regarding obstacles faced during development.
Stakeholders’ Involvement
All the stakeholders are directly involved in the process from start to finish. No one stays out of touch with the developments and updates pertaining to the product. This also ensures complete trust between all parties.
Respond to Change
Because all teams are directly involved throughout the whole project, whenever a change is required or implemented, all teams know right away. This is one of the key features of this process, that everyone is ready for change.
Pros
- The agile methodology makes all the efforts to satisfy the customers’ requirements.
- The process is more focused on the quality of the product rather than the quantity, thus satisfying the customer.
- The process welcomes completely transparent two-way communication between developer and customer resulting in mutual trust.
Cons
- This process doesn’t blend well with small scale projects.
- Highly reputed tech experts and professionals are required to ensure the quality of the project.
- Repetitive execution of the project is required thus creating the need to extend the deadline frequently.
Tools
You can use various tools such as Jira Agile, Active Collab and more, to aid in this process. These tools help you manage daily tasks and activities to ease your burden. You can assign tasks and manage them while keeping a record of them all. For all this, you will, however, need a reliable connectivity service such as the ones provided by AT&T, Spectrum, Cox and so on.
Conclusion
We have discussed most of the features and drawbacks of this method. Having said all, it must be added everything carries benefits and drawbacks and ultimately one has to decide what they want to opt for and as to what may serve their purpose the best.
FAQs
What is Agile methodology?
Agile methodology is a project management framework. It is used to assist in project management processes in software development.
What is Scrum?
Scrum is one of the implementations of Agile methodology. Scrum meetings are conducted on a daily basis. Scrum basically divides bigger tasks into smaller ones.
Why use Agile methodology?
Agile is an iterative approach towards making changes and developments throughout a given process. Both user and developer work side by side to complete the project.
