Online business owners and project managers are always looking for new ways to increase productivity and efficiency and, once again a major breakthrough comes from the world of software development. The Agile management methodology continues to gain popularity in the online and digital business world and here we will take a look at what makes this approach so innovative.
- What is Agile Management?
While this term seems to be everywhere these days, Agile management methodology has its roots way back in 2001 as a response to the top-down approach used in software development that often created a lag between a client’s changing needs and the sequential development of a product.
Agile methodology is a focused process that places a priority on collaboration between different teams, speedy delivery of products, and adaptability over rigid procedures.
In the 2001 document, The Agile Manifesto,authors laid out the core concepts that shape the methodology:
-Individuals and interactions over different processes and tools
-Working software over documentation
-Customer collaboration on contract negotiation
-Responding to change over following a plan
That is, while there is value in the items on the right, we value the items on the left more.
- How Does Agile Management Methodology Work?
A project will be divided into smaller components, known asuser stories, which are individual features or aspects required of a project as defined by the client.
Each of these requirements is organized into iterations and placed on a to-do list known as a product backlog. Teams then address iterations in time periods known as sprints, which usually last around two weeks. Each of these iterations will be completed within one sprint, with the goal being to have a product that can be shipped to the client to gain more specific feedback.
A popular concept in the world of Agile management is the idea of failing fast and often in order to find out what doesn’t work.
These short cycles of development, feedback, refinement, and further development are essential in the process and are shaped by the core tenets of agile management methodology.
By creating a continuing conversation with clients, Agile management methods allow for a higher level of adaptability—and therefore a better final product—than other management strategies.
- Is Agile Management Methodology Right for You?
While this management strategy continues to gain popularity in the online and digital business world, there are a few things to consider when thinking about applying Agile methodology to your business.
Agile management methods are best suited when there is a level of uncertainty in the requirements for a project. If an Adapt Solution client has every aspect of a product hammered out, there is very little need for the back and forth communication typical of this strategy.
However, if a concept with only a few necessary features is the starting point, Agile management methodology is the perfect choice for online and digital business projects.
Adapt Solution are experts in all areas of Agile management methodology. To find out more about our company, and how we can help your business, please click here. Alternatively, to know more about the services we offer, please visit our Services page by clicking here.