Agile Development: An Introduction to Scrum

Agile software development is a conceptual framework for undertaking software engineering projects. There are a number of agile software development methodologies, such as those espoused by the Agile Alliance, a non-profit organization.

Most agile methods attempt to minimize risk by developing software in short timeboxes, called iterations, which typically last one to four weeks. Each iteration is like a miniature software project of its own, and includes all the tasks necessary to release the mini-increment of new functionality: planning, requirements analysis, design, coding, testing, and documentation. While an iteration may not add enough functionality to warrant releasing the product, an agile software project intends to be capable of releasing new software at the end of every iteration. At the end of each iteration, the team reevaluates project priorities.

One commonly used agile method is Scrum. Scrum is an agile, lightweight process that can be used to manage and control software and product development using iterative, incremental practices. Using Scrum techniques such as backlog, release planning, sprint planning and sprints, we will be delving into Scrum itself using you the attendee to direct the discussion so that maximum value is achieved.