By using Agile software development new products are prone to get to the market quicker and as a rule they are a whole lot more successful. The main concept of Agile development techniques is separating complex tasks into smaller ones so they can be implemented independently. The basic principles and values of Agile development were set out in the Agile Manifesto, a document which was drafted by 17 experienced software engineers including John Kern, Alistair Cockburn, Mike Beedle and Ron Jeffries. Essential values of Agile feature valuing individuals and their communications over processes, working software rather than documentation, collaboration with clients over contract negotiations and being responsive to change rather than simply pursuing a plan. The principles underlying Agile development techniques consist of customer satisfaction, simplicity, the ability to keep a steady pace of progress, close collaboration between developers and clients, target on communication through face-to-face contact, and delivery of functioning software as the primary measure of progress on the overall project.
What are the benefits of adopting agile software development in your company?
1. Better team morale. Team members feel more invested in the process and consequently, have a greater emotional engagement in seeing that it is completed to the best of their abilities.
2. Responsiveness to changing business needs. Frequently the project specifications suddenly change and it's very difficult to respond fast with the help of traditional methods of development. Usually teams that use traditional methods of development may be stymied by these changes. Alternatively Agile software development methods allows development teams to respond quick to any alterations.
3. Agile methods are ideal for small software start ups. Using Agile software development methods one can launch a start up faster. And with continuous client feedback throughout the process, the software produced is more likely to be successful once it hits the market as it genuinely mirrors stakeholders’ needs.
Today Agile software development methods are commonly used in software development companies around the world. If your company is related to software development it's highly recommended to start following Agile development methods as soon as possible. Postponing integration will make your company uncompetitive in future and your customers will look for more modern solution.
