What is Agile?
Agile is a set of principles and practices for software development that prioritizes individuals and interactions, working software, customer collaboration, and responding to change. It breaks down projects into small, manageable iterations called sprints, typically lasting 1-4 weeks.
Core Agile Principles
The Four Values:
- Individuals and interactions over processes and tools
- Working software over comprehensive documentation
- Customer collaboration over contract negotiation
- Responding to change over following a plan
Popular Agile Frameworks
Scrum
The most popular Agile framework with defined roles (Scrum Master, Product Owner, Development Team) and ceremonies (Sprint Planning, Daily Standups, Sprint Review, Retrospective).
Kanban
A visual workflow management method that uses boards and cards to track work progress and limit work in progress.
Extreme Programming (XP)
Focuses on engineering practices like pair programming, test-driven development, and continuous integration.
Benefits of Agile
- Faster time to market
- Better quality through continuous testing
- Improved customer satisfaction
- Greater flexibility and adaptability
- Enhanced team collaboration
- Reduced project risk