How Do I Get an Agile Project Started?
Agile is a methodology built on a set of principles. There are several software development methods that embody Agile principles, and determine how a project is organized and executed. The most well-known of these Agile development methods (which actually preceded the coining of umbrella term of Agile) are Scrum and eXtreme Programming (or XP). Others include Adaptive Software Development, Crystal Clear, Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM), and Feature Driven Development. It is beyond the scope of this site to cover each of these methods in detail, but an introduction to XP is included on this site.
Select an Agile Development Method
Ultimately, an organization must select a development method that details the actual process and practices, not just the philosophy, of Agile. This is the first step to beginning an Agile implementation. This site contains a summary of the key elements of XP process and practices. There are many other public sources that contain information on other Agile processes. You can start your research here.
Secure the Expertise
Unless you have a core group in your organization that is experienced in working in (and managing) the Agile method of your choice, your organization will want to hire or contract with people who do, at least to get started. Most Agile methods are counter-intuitive, yet very rigorous in the process elements of execution. Although some development methods based on Agile have room to adapt to specific projects and culture, most will not yield positive results if they are not implemented fully.
Identify an Appropriate Project
If you are a mature organization with many existing, successful products, it would be a good idea to get started with a project that does not hold the future of the company in its balance. That puts way too much pressure on the learning process (and there will be a learning process). If you are a startup organization without a lot of legacy issues or near-term sales forecasts, or beginning a new initiative, then starting your development process with Agile methodologies can be a good idea. More information on the types of projects that fit Agile best can be found here.Identify the Right People
Success of an Agile implementation ultimately depends on the people. If this is the first time your organization is implementing an Agile methodology, it will be important to have the resources responsible for implementing and overseeing the progress of an Agile implementation not be steeped in and committed to the existing (traditional) development processes and philosophies. In selecting people for the project team-especially the early members who will set the pace and culture for those who join later-look for two primary characteristics:
- Experience
- Belief
