Agile 101: An Introduction to Agile Software Development Methodology

In this introduction to Agile software development you will learn how following Agile methodology process may result with the best quality of your product development.

Waterfall and Agile are the reigning champions of the software development methodologies. Waterfall makes sure the project is on time and budget. It’s resilient to change and new ideas. It can, however, take more time to deliver software.

For many project managers, Agile is a solution to Waterfall’s flaws. Agile manifesto, which debuted in 2001, proposed a process including feedback and ideas into the project. This is also when feature teams were introduced.

So, how can this process work for you? In this article, I’ll focus on Agile methodology, informing you of what to expect, and what you should prepare for this incredible process working on software development project.

Agile methodology process

I’d like you to remember ‘flexibility’, a word perfectly characterising Agile system development.

First, Agile divides a project into iterations. Each one of them must take the same time and lead to releasing an outcome. During iterations team members can include feedback, which improves quality.

Units involved with the process are:

I also invite you to learn more details on the roles and responsibilities in remote development teams.

Different Agile Software Development Methodologies

All roads lead to Rome – some are ancient, while some are novel. Agile software development methodologies come in a broad spectrum. You may be familiar with:

The last two are the most significant.

Scrum is a popular process framework, even beyond the software development world. It helps with development execution, delivery, and sustainability. Collaboration, accountability, and iterative progress are the hallmarks of Agile Scrum.

Kanban is a step inside the old-school. Popularised by Toyota in the 1940s, it is a visual management tool from which one can familiarise with the founding principles of Agile, formed 70 years later. The success of this method lies behind minimising ‘work-in-progress’, and smaller feedback loops.

Agile Software Development Process

To put it simply, the Agile methodology process flow proceeds as follows:

Agile Iteration Workflow

Iterations are the bread and butter of Agile methodology process. There are many iterations within the process, composed of time slots, ultimately determining what can be done within. Each operates within a fixed completion time, taking around 1-4 weeks.

You can see the workflow of the iteration below. You may remember this diagram from my previous Agile vs Waterfall article.

Here, I will explain the components in greater detail:

Here’s What You Need to Prepare

The best way to get ready is to get to know the system and mindset!

Implement Agile Software Development Process in Your Next Project

Agile system development is intensive, and if you haven’t noticed, requires your involvement in all stages. Therefore, be sure to allocate time to make this happen.

Here are four key points which you can take out of the Agile software development process:

1. Agile operates at its best when the customer provides time, interaction and input. It is a very collaborative process, and your participation is central.
2. Never forget the importance of constant communication. Be ready for meetings and face-to-face contact.
3. Expect the highest possible quality product. However, don’t count on a strict deadline. This ensures ‘no kinks’ appear in the final version; however, it only applies to larger projects.
4. Changes can and will happen, with new ideas in all stages of software development!