In February 2001, 17 software experts met at a ski resort in Utah. Other than skiing and relaxing, they came together to discuss and fix problems in software development. Despite different ideas, they agreed that the usual methods of development weren’t working. They formed ‘The Agile Alliance’ and, from their discussions, created ‘The Agile Manifesto’. This brief document outlines 4 values and 12 principles for agile software development. It’s crucial to know that agile wasn’t new; people had been using its principles before. The manifesto simply made these ideas clear and solidified them in the software world.
12 Agile principles
- Satisfy the customer early and continuously:
- Make the customer happy by delivering valuable software bits regularly and as soon as possible.
- Embrace changing requirements for competitive advantage:
- Be open to changes in the project, even late in the game. Change can be your secret weapon for staying ahead.
- Frequent delivery of working software:
- Share functional software frequently, aiming for shorter timeframes, like every few weeks. It’s about showing progress regularly.
- Daily collaboration between business people and developers:
- Business teams and managers and developers should be like best friends, working together every day. It’s a team effort.
- Build projects around motivated individuals:
- Create projects that motivate and excite individuals. Trust them, give them the right environment, empower them and watch them shine.
- Face-to-face communication is key:
- The best way to share information in a team is by talking face-to-face. It’s quick, clear, and fosters understanding.
- Working software measures progress:
- The more functional software you produce, the more progress you’re making. It’s the ultimate measurement of delivery and success.
- Promote sustainable development:
- Keep the development pace steady and sustainable for everyone involved – sponsors, developers, and users. It’s about the marathon, not a sprint.
- Continuous focus on technical excellence:
- Always strive for technical greatness. It keeps your team agile and adaptable.
- Simplicity is essential:
- Less is more. Keep things simple, avoid unnecessary work, and focus on what truly matters.
- Self-organizing teams lead to the best outcomes:
- Let teams organize themselves. The best ideas and solutions often come from within.
- Regular reflection for continuous improvement:
- Take time to reflect regularly. Figure out how to do things better, and adjust accordingly. It’s a journey of constant improvement.
Understanding these principles can transform the way projects are approached, making teams more adaptable, collaborative, and ultimately successful.
4 Core values of the Agile manifesto
Agile manifesto also has 4 values as explained below
- Individuals and interactions over processes and tools:
- People and teamwork take precedence over strict rules and tools. Collaboration is key.
- Working software over comprehensive documentation:
- The focus is on creating a functional product rather than drowning in paperwork. Show, don’t just write.
- Customer collaboration over contract negotiation:
- Instead of endless negotiations, work closely with customers. Continuous communication ensures alignment.
- Responding to change over following a plan:
- While plans are good, adaptability is better. Embrace change to stay agile and competitive.
