5 Important Types Of Agile Methodology

To keep up with the rapid changes in the technology paradigm, agile technology emerged. Agile provided a notable shift in the project management method known as “Waterfall” which had previously been the standard.

Introduction

Agile software development methodologies came to prominence circa 2001. They arose from the revered Agile Manifesto, which laid down the principles and core practices. Before understanding the definition of agile methodologies, it is pertinent to know what agile is.

Agile is a set of techniques that a team follows to manage a project or plan by dividing it into stages and collaborating continuously with customers. There is constant monitoring at every phase of the project's software development. The advantages of the agile methodology are that both development and testing activities are parallel and synchronized, unlike the conventional waterfall methodology.

Read more about Agile.

5 Important Types Of Agile Methodology

There are various agile methods available on the market to suit every project’s needs. Although there are different agile methodologies, the principles in the agile manifesto undergird them all.

Today, software professionals refer to any use of these principles as "Agile", regardless of which type they ultimately use. However, one can only reap the benefits through the collaboration of all the parties involved.

The list below comprises famous types of agile methodologies that one can opt to utilize:

1. Kanban

Originating from the Japanese language, the translation of the word ‘Kanban’ is "signboard”. It is part of the Japanese concept of “just in time". The Japanese originally introduced the Kanban concept to increase innovation and efficiency in the manufacturing industry. It was a tremendous success. Consequently, the software industry adopted it because many of its concepts dovetail perfectly.

Kanban is a very visual framework for developing and managing projects. Participants utilize a multi-column "Kanban Board" to depict the process flow of software development. This helps increase visibility, as the teams can see progress at every stage of development. Seeing the tasks on the board helps motivate them to deliver the product “just in time”.

This method requires total transparency in order to work. You can't hide from the Kanban board!

2. Scrum

One of the most popular agile methods is agile scrum. In this method, project managers break each project into "sprints," which can last from a few days to a few months. During each sprint, the team focuses on completing a specified set of deliverables, without worrying too much about the big picture. Then, when the sprint is over, all stakeholders review the completed work. They then plan for the next sprint based on the learnings and feedback they've gleaned from the last sprint.

The benefit of this method is that it allows one to adjust priorities in real time as the application comes to life.

The Scrum Team has exclusive project roles, such as a scrum master and a product owner, with constant communication during the daily scrum, where activities are coordinated to determine the best way to implement the sprint.

CodeStringers typically employs this method, for example, in developing RapidOnboarder for MasterControl.

3. Extreme Programming (XP)

Extreme Programming (XP) is a methodology that emphasizes teamwork, communication, and feedback. It focuses on constant development and customer satisfaction. Similar to Scrum, this method also uses sprints or short development cycles. This is developed by a team to create a productive and highly efficient environment.

The Extreme Programming technique is very supportive in situations with constant and varying customer demands. It motivates developers to accept changes in customer demands, even if they arise in an advanced phase of the development process.

In Extreme Programming, the project is tested from the initial stages by collecting feedback that informs the system's output. This also provides a spot check to easily implement any customer requirements.

4. Crystal

Mr. Alistair Cockburn invented Crystal. He was one of the original, monumental persons in formulating the Agile manifesto for software development. Crystal is his latest iteration. Crystal is a group of smaller agile development methodologies: Crystal Yellow, Crystal Clear, Crystal Red, Crystal Orange, and more. Each has its own unique framework, characterized by factors such as system criticality, team size, and project priorities. One chooses a framework based on the nature of the project or the system's criticality. Some examples of the factors are: Comfort (C), Essential Money (E), Discretionary Money (D), and Life (L).

Similar to other Agile methodologies, Crystal also addresses prompt software delivery, regularity, reduced administration, high user involvement, and customer satisfaction. The Crystal family advocates that each system or project is inimitable. Therefore, each necessitates the solicitation of diverse practices, processes, and policies to achieve the best results.

5. Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM)

The Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM) addresses the need for a standard industry charter for the swift delivery of software. DSDM provides a comprehensive structure that can be defined and modified to plan, execute, manage, and scale the software development process. Based on a business-driven approach and eight principles, the DSDM anticipates ongoing project modifications. However, it maintains the focus on quality and timely delivery.

Conclusion

One must use a dynamic approach in choosing the right agile tool. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each methodology as it pertains to your particular circumstances.

original article: Ajay Sarangam edited by: Christian Schraga