Agile methodology represents a fundamental shift from traditional waterfall project management approaches, emphasizing adaptability, customer collaboration, and iterative development. Born from the Agile Manifesto created by 17 software developers in 2001, this approach prioritizes individuals and interactions over processes and tools, working software over comprehensive documentation, customer collaboration over contract negotiation, and responding to change over following a plan.

Core Agile Principles

• Customer Satisfaction: Deliver valuable software early and continuously to satisfy customers.
• Embrace Change: Welcome changing requirements, even late in development, to provide competitive advantage.
• Frequent Delivery: Deliver working software frequently, with preference for shorter timescales.
• Collaboration: Business people and developers work together daily throughout the project.
• Motivated Teams: Build projects around motivated individuals and trust them to get the job done.
• Face-to-Face Communication: The most efficient method of conveying information within a development team.

Popular Agile Frameworks

• Scrum: Uses fixed-length sprints (typically 2-4 weeks) with defined roles (Product Owner, Scrum Master, Development Team) and ceremonies (Sprint Planning, Daily Standups, Sprint Review, Retrospective).
• Kanban: Visualizes workflow using boards and cards, focusing on continuous flow and limiting work in progress.
• Extreme Programming (XP): Emphasizes technical practices like pair programming, test-driven development, and continuous integration.
• Lean: Focuses on eliminating waste and optimizing the whole system for faster delivery.

Agile Benefits for Business

Organizations adopting agile methodologies typically experience:

• Faster Time to Market: Regular releases allow businesses to respond quickly to market opportunities.
• Improved Quality: Continuous testing and feedback loops catch issues early.
• Better Risk Management: Short iterations make it easier to identify and address problems quickly.
• Enhanced Customer Satisfaction: Regular delivery of working features keeps customers engaged and satisfied.
• Team Productivity: Self-organizing teams and clear priorities boost motivation and efficiency.

For companies working with Leverture, agile methodology ensures projects remain aligned with business objectives while maintaining the flexibility to adapt to changing market conditions and customer needs throughout the development process.