Agile and scrum are management methodologies and are closely associated with software development. They share similar approaches, while their key differences will help you understand software development and project management even better. This blog post will discuss how each methodology works.
The Agile Methodology
The agile methodology features a flexible and collaborative approach adopted by teams to achieve tasks more efficiently. The project management methodology, extensively used in software development, is often a natural way to organize cross-function team members and keep them on track.
Using Agile, they perform several tasks in a project which is then structured into a backlog, depending on end-user feedback. The basic principle of Agile methodology is to offer flexibility so that the required changes can be made easily. Among the various tools and techniques used in the modern world, Agile helps you maximize the value of the produced output.
The Principles of Agile Methodology
Agile is a new philosophy that helps manage the software development process. It’s based on 12 principles that begin the Agile Manifesto. The structure of Agile methodology features the following:
- Communicating with team members is as important as having the right set of tools.
- It’s better to have functioning products than full-scale specifications.
- Direct communication is substantial than the ins and outs of a contract.
- Flexibility towards changes outweighs having an original comprehensive plan.
The project doesn’t involve in-depth initial planning at the beginning. The agile-based approach allows changing requirements over time and promotes frequent end-user feedback. Agile processes for the iterative and incremental methods.
Direct communication helps improve workflow and clarify tasks. Moreover, daily meetings between different team members enable “open sharing” and progress.
When Should You Use Agile?
Agile is best suitable for open projects and projects where some details are unclear from the beginning. That’s what makes the Agile methodology beneficial for industries that handle constant or unpredictable change or teams creating a new product. However, for projects that have strict constraints, more traditional management styles might be better.
The Scrum Methodology
Scrum methodology is an agile framework facilitating efficiency and collaboration in testing and software development. Scrum-based development projects can be divided into small builds, called sprints. These sprints include three components – sprint goals, spring backlogs, and product backlogs.
Each sprint defines, develops, and tests a specific function. Based on the project’s complexity, a sprint may last two to three weeks. With this framework, scrum methodology ensures the success of each project. Every team member must remain on track to address and solve any potential problems. This confirms that the team has adopted Scrum methodologies.
The Principles of Scrum Approach
The scrum approach in software development comprises some unique events and roles. The development team, including the product owner and Scrum Master, plays an important role in the Scrum process.
The product owner is a nominal client responsible for making business decisions. They also manage the product backlog to prioritize the tasks. Before an iteration begins, the backlog cards with new tasks will be transferred to the new Sprint Planning Meeting. The cards gradually move from the “To-do” column to the “Done” column. Team members synchronize the progress and discuss their next steps at daily scrum meetings.
The work efficiency is evaluated during the Retrospective stage and is improved with a frequent comparison of sprints. Once the sprint is over, the sprint review takes place. The outcomes of the Sprint Planning Meeting are assessed while the functionality is demonstrated to the client.
When Should You Use Scrum?
A scrum is an excellent approach when it comes to dealing with complex projects in changing environments. Like various agile methodologies, scrum is beneficial for industries in constant flux or for pioneering new projects. When dealing with fixed requirements and a company that doesn’t allow smooth functional collaboration, you may need a more traditional approach.
Agile vs. Scrum
Agile is an approach to project management, whereas scrum is a part of the Agile umbrella. The Scrum method can be used to implement the Agile approach. A few parts of the scrum represent the Agile principles and several points that make it more unique within the philosophy. Learn some of the similarities between Scrum and Agile:
- Short-term development cycles
- Emphasize communication, collaboration, and people.
- Have the capacity to adapt to changes.
The following factors make scrum different from other Agile methodologies:
- Work is structured into sprints that last for one to four weeks.
- A product backlog keeps track of the work that needs to be done.
- Roles are divided into the product owners, scrum master, and development team.
- Team members conduct a short Scrum meeting daily.
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