2022. August 29.
Agile software development has become a core concept for modern IT companies. It's no wonder, as it allows for fast and efficient software development, which is essential in the current fast-paced environment. In this article, we're going to look at the history and the meaning of agile software development!
What is agile software development?
The word ‘agile’ is used in everyday colloquial language, meaning ready for action, quick-witted. Agile methodology is about breaking down the development process into separate stages, and development cycles, during which a more advanced version of the product is created. This is how the software is built and how the range of built-in features is continuously extended.
Agile software development provides a framework within which several programming methodologies and practices exist. This includes Scrum, Lean, Kanban, Crystal, Extreme Programming, Feature-Driven Development and Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM).
Which methodology to follow in which situation depends on the programming goal, the workflow, and the team. Agile software development is an interactive process, meaning that specification, design, development, and testing overlap. The programmers progress step-by-step in building the software, which in practice means that, unlike classical models such as the Waterfall model, a basic but functional, testable version is built and then refined and developed.
Where does agile software development come from?
The early days of programming were the pre-1970s. At that time, programmers did not follow a methodology and there was no set order to their workflows. Former engineers and mathematicians worked intuitively and according to their previous experience, following different principles.
The 1970s was a turning point when programming began to be taught at the university level, which required a system. Winston Royce's Waterfall methodology was also born during this period. The idea is that development is a linear process, broken down into stages. The programmer completes a stage, it is finished, approved and only then can he move on to the next stage. The Waterfall model is a relatively rigid structure, easy to understand and follow, which is why it has been a dominant feature in the lives of programmers for 30 years.
In the 1990s, it became clear that the Waterfall model, which had been followed and adored by many, was no longer enough and that a new solution was needed. In 1994, the Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM) was created, and in 1995, Scrum came into the world, which built on the Waterfall model but favoured short-cycle development. In 1996, Crystal Clear and Extreme Programming appeared, and in 1997, Adaptive Software Development and Function-Driven Development.
Over the years, agile software development has evolved into a trend that brings together all these methodologies. Its 12 principles and 4 core values were laid down in the Agile Manifesto in 2001 by 17 software development experts at the Snowbird Resort in Utah.
- The manifesto stated that the most important thing is customer satisfaction and the delivery of working software as soon as possible.
- Change is taken for granted and should be capitalized on.
- New versions of working software should be delivered as frequently as possible.
- Expect close collaboration between business and IT staff.
- Project staff must be success-oriented and able to work in the right environment.
- Preference for face-to-face discussions.
- Working software is the measure of progress.
- Sustainable development and continuity are essential.
- Agility can be enhanced by a good plan and technical excellence.
- Simplicity is essential.
- Self-organising groups can be fruitful.
- Efficiency should be regularly assessed and adjusted accordingly.
By 2003, agile development was being taught according to the principles set out and people were emerging who were not from the IT world but the management side.
Current use of agile development
Agile software development is the most popular development framework currently. According to a Zippia survey, 71% of US companies follow this methodology. Within this, the principles of Scrum are the most popular. Its effectiveness is demonstrated by the numbers, with results showing that the success rate for agile projects is 64%, compared to 49% for those using the Waterfall model.
SynerinSoft also follows the principles of agile software development. Curious to know what services we offer? Look at our website!
