Traditionally, developers took a linear approach to software development called the Waterfall Methodology. Projects are divided into stages, and each stage is completed before the next stage begins. In the final stage, the finished software project is delivered to the client. This approach leaves stakeholders little opportunity to offer feedback, and if a deliverable isn’t all that stakeholders hoped for, it can be prohibitively expensive to make changes once the project is completed.
By contrast, the Agile Methodology takes a cyclic approach to development. Developers work in short development cycles of two to four weeks, and smaller deliverables are provided at more frequent intervals. Unlike the traditional method, meetings between developers and stakeholders are frequent, providing stakeholders and developers many opportunities to address issues as they arise and the ability to adapt early to changing requirements.
Agile Methodology is a logical solution to the many challenges that arise in the development of new software. The landscape of emerging technologies and the modern marketplace are both constantly changing, which means tech project requirements are subject to change often. An agile approach makes it easier and more cost-effective to adapt to shifting requirements over the course of the project timeline by periodically evaluating and adjusting expectations and proposed outcomes.
Shorter, iterative project phases and regular team meetings reduce risks and keep the whole team focused on the task at hand. Stakeholders have an opportunity to express concerns about a project during the early phases, which prevents developers from wasting time, energy, and resources on a direction that is no longer in alignment with the needs of a client.
When a product’s market is particularly competitive, the rapid delivery of Agile Methodology gives stakeholders a first-mover advantage. In a constantly-changing landscape, developers have the capacity to optimize and adjust software throughout its development rather than adding another stage at the end of an already lengthy waterfall project. This often results in unexpected, added value to stakeholders.
Agile Methodology offers a number of advantages to developers and stakeholders, and it’s particularly effective in highly variable, sophisticated projects with aggressive timelines. Regular communication means ambiguities and changes can be dealt with immediately. Shorter cycles encourage faster development. In a fast-paced marketplace, an agile approach is the secret to staying ahead of the competition.
At Antares, we use a customized agile methodology to develop solutions for a wide variety of industries, including healthcare, oil & gas, finance and insurance. We also help startups get commercial digital products to market faster using our agile approach. Contact our experts today to learn how our developers can work with your business team to offer a first-mover advantage in a fast-paced market.