"Agile"

I know you may have read many articles and probably tried picturing the definition of "Agile". But if you are confused by complicated terms then this post may help you. I have tried to put it in simpler terms.

Let's go over what is Agile ?

Agile is a philosophy that uses organizational models based on people, collaboration and shared values. Agile promotes three core values : trust, transparency and collaboration.

How it works!

Agile uses rolling wave planning; iterative and incremental delivery; rapid and flexible response to change; and open communication between teams, stakeholders and customers. There are many agile methodologies that adhere to these tenets, such as Scrum, XP, Lean and Test-driven Development (TDD), etc.

How it helps!

Agile principles and practices are topics of growing importance in project management and used by most successful companies. Project management practitioners, software development teams can use agile principles and practices to successfully manage change,improve communication, reduce cost, increase efficiency and demonstrate value to customers and stakeholders.

Let's go over few core agile principles and practices (tried putting together in simpler terms)

• Early, measurable return on investment through defined, iterative delivery of product increments.
• High visibility of project progress allows early identification and resolution or monitoring of problems.
• Continuous involvement of the customer throughout the product development cycle.
• Empowerment of the business owner to make decisions needed to meet goals.
• Adaptation to changing business needs, giving more influence over requirement changes.
• Reduce product and process waste.

Hopefully this helps you understanding the principles and practices agile proposes. I will post about Agile Manifesto on my next post.