The path from idea development to implementation has not always been a smooth ride in software development. Traditional software development processes were based on a timeline approach, developments occurred sequentially and the final product was only revealed upon project completion. This meant there was very little room for changes, so additional ideas could not be visualized.
This approach led to a waste of time and resources, some projects were cancelled midway and others never made it to completion. It was clear that something was amiss, making way to the rise of new obtainable and scalable software development process, known as the agile methodology
What is the Agile Methodology?
It is a type of project management process, mainly used for software development, where demands and solutions evolve through the collaborative effort of self-organizing and cross-functional teams and their customers.
Software is something that is continuously upgraded, hence the need for a more flexible method to ensure constant innovation.
The Agile Manifesto is a declaration of the values and principles expressed in agile methodology. Made up for four foundational values and 12 key principles, it aims to help uncover better ways of developing software by providing a clear and measurable structure that promotes iterative development, team collaboration and change recognition.
As individuals, we carry out projects frequently, be it taking a trip to the grocery store, or simply passing through the day. It is important to ensure that we iteratively schedule plans and activities to ensure there’s room for adjustments where necessary, as plans do not usually go our way. In such situation, the agile methodology is an efficient and effective way to plan, tested and trusted across industries and individuals.
I will further align the four values to fit into our daily lives and projects we undergo on a regular, to ensure smooth transition and minimal waste of time and energy.
The four values are outlined below:
1. Individuals and interactions over processes and tools- acknowledgement of project and processes involved
2. Working software over comprehensive documentation- carefully outlining procedure
3. Customer collaboration over contract negotiation- ensuring sufficient resources among parties involved
4. Responding to change over following a plan- allowing room for unforeseen circumstances and acting accordingly.
The agile methodology is very sacrosanct to the successful completion of a project whether it is carried out on a large scale or not. It allows rooms for mistakes and ensures individuals maximize resources and potential, improving innovation and ensuring progress is achieved every step of the way. Simply put, it is a step-by-step process of achieving tasks and projects. One beautiful thing about this methodology is that mistakes are noted along the way, and are solved almost as soon as they appear.
On a lighter note, we ushered in the new year a few days ago. The previous year came with its numerous challenges, but you pulled through. The new year brings with it, the promise of a new day and brighter opportunities. As always, the world is yours for the taking. Go get it, iteratively of course!
