Challenges in IT projects
The agile way of working is not yet established in all companies. The prevailing thinking in large IT projects and software development is usually as follows: The project is successful if it is "in time" and "in budget".
The problem with this is that the most important question is forgotten:
What benefits does the development of the product or software bring for customers?
Benefits of the software for customers
60 percent of the software developed in SAP projects is adapted and introduced, but not really used (Reading tip: Wybranietz, Klaus SAP, The Agile Way). Do we really want to invest all our energy in developing software that is not needed?
The agile manifesto
In 2001, a number of software engineering pioneers published the so-called "Manifesto for agile software development".
The authors of the agile manifesto are experienced and well-known software engineers and developers. And the agile manifesto has been regarded as the developers' answer to complicated software process models such as RUP or the V-model.
To this end, the principles for the agile manifesto were created.
Difference to the classic approach
These classic process models in IT projects, such as the waterfall model or the V-model, place more emphasis on compliance with organizational rules and specifications from the software developer's point of view. Here, detailed planning takes place at the beginning of the project.
The focus of agile project organization is strongly on the product or software. And also on the close cooperation of the people involved in the creation. This enables an appropriate response to changes within the IT project. It helps to get closer to the project goal.
"We find better ways to develop software by doing it ourselves and helping others." - Agile Manifesto
Agile transformation - start the process
The agile transformation is a structural change. The transition from your old approach to the agile approach is a structural change that should be approached in a planned manner.
As an agile coach, META first takes a look at the Agile Manifesto with every new team. Manifesto for Agile Software Development.
META helps you transform into an agile organization!
Core statements of the agile manifesto
Individuals and interactions
More than processes and tools
The use of processes and tools is important. However, these should not be placed above direct collaboration and communication between stakeholders in the project. The success of a software project is largely determined by the cooperation of the people involved. The use of tools is only really effective if all the people involved can work well together
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Functioning software
More than comprehensive documentation
From a development project, the customer expects a system that supports their requirements well. However, good documentation of the activities in the software development process or the system only helps if the system actually works. Strict specifications of process paradigms such as the waterfall model tie up a lot of resources in a software project. These cannot then be used for development activities.
Cooperation with the customer
More than contract negotiation
Cross-organizational IT projects for development must be regulated by contracts with the contractor and client. In particular, large IT projects with professional and technical uncertainties often lead to the fact that only the fulfillment of the requirements, functions, deadlines and costs specified in the original contract are satisfactory for stakeholders. The customer is forgotten. Customers must therefore be actively involved in the planning and content design of the development project.
Reacting to change
More than just following a plan
Requirements or changes in the organizational or technological environment require a pronounced willingness and ability to adapt. In the course of a project and development, changes to the system requirements must be expected on an ongoing basis. And thus also with changes to the project plan. The priority of requirements often changes. Or an unimportant requirement needs to be implemented urgently. The project team must then be ready and able to react appropriately to the changes in the plan.
Principles of agile software development
- Our highest priority is to satisfy the customer through early and continuous delivery of valuable software.
- Hot requirement changes are welcome even late in the development process. Agile processes use changes to the customer's competitive advantage.
- Deliver working software regularly within a few weeks or months, preferring the shorter timeframe.
- Technical experts and developers must work together on a daily basis during the project.
- Build projects around motivated individuals. Give them the environment and support they need and trust them to get the job done.
- The most efficient and effective way to communicate information to and within a development team is face-to-face.
- Functioning software is the most important measure of progress.
- Agile processes promote sustainable development. Clients, developers and users should be able to maintain a steady pace indefinitely.
- Constant attention to technical excellence and good design promotes agility.
- Simplicity - the art of maximizing the amount of unfinished work - is essential.
- The best architectures, requirements and designs are created by self-organized teams.
- At regular intervals, the team reflects on how it can become more effective and adapts its behavior accordingly.
And your challenges?
No matter where you currently stand in your project - the first exchange is completely non-binding and free of charge for you. Arrange your introductory telephone appointment now on 0681 - 9456 144.
