7 Common Misconceptions About Agile

What Is Agile?

Agile is a repetitive and incremental process in software development that helps the functionality of the software to release in smaller cycles. The work is done with a highly expert, self-organizing team that checks whether the customer needs are truly met so that changes can be made accordingly. For example, XYZ company is working on making a gaming app, and by Agile methods releases the game in small cycles to check the compatibility and its working speed and make changes accordingly. By repetitive check and release in the small cycle, the company can have new ideas as well as feedback from the customer end by email or chat so that the team can work effectively with the incremental improvement. With Agile methods, a company can get the true feedback from customer end for the better improvement of the project.

Common Misconceptions About Agile

The first thing that comes to mind when we hear the word "Agile" is either creating backlogs for sprints that will be delivered in two to three weeks or attending standup meetings. These are elements of Scrum. Agile works like an umbrella of Scrum because they share common principles. Scrum is just a methodology that is built on Agile principles. Doing Scrum does not mean that you are using Agile. Just doing a daily stand-up doesn’t mean that you are doing Agile.

1. Agile Means “We Don’t Have a Plan”

Every project needs a plan for success. In Agile, the long-term plan is divided into different stages that are reviewed regularly.

2. Agile Doesn’t Need Project Managers

Agile projects need a manager who doesn't just tell you what to do because Agile methodologies are self-managing. However, that manager will keep track of your work to give the feedback to upper management. Software is complex, so you need ideas from different people in order for the project to run smoothly. The manager will help you with this. 

3. Claiming to be Agile When You're Clearly Not

Simply collaborating or paying attention to quality does not mean that you're doing Agile. If you are not able to adhere to all of the principles of Agile, then you are not doing Agile.

4. Blaming Agile: “I Tried It Once and Didn’t Like It”

It’s not a bullet that will reach its destination as soon as you fire it. Some projects fail while using Agile methods. Don’t blame Agile for your failure; that's just bad workmen blaming the tools. It’s just a software, not a human who is behaving cleverly with you. Having a successful work totally depends on your hard work.

5. Agile Only Works for Developers and Software

It did first start in the technology industry, but now, as its benefits to the company as a whole are being brought to life, it is broadly accepted in non-software industries like healthcare, communication, manufacturing, and more.

6. Agile Doesn’t Believe in Documentation

Agile works on comprehensive documentation as per its methodology. But if you required a document that is useful for you and another team member, then there will be no excuse for not producing them for the benefit of multiple people. So yes, you can produce them, because it will help you in the iteration.

7. Agile Alone Will Fix All of Our Problems

Just implementing Agile methods or Agile tools to your company will not help you obtain a better result. Software needs work to be performed by you. It's not automated; all you need is dedication and hard work, and with the help of Agile, you will get the best result.

The difference between Agile and Scrum? Agile software development represents a group of software development including Rational Unified Process (RUP), Extreme Programming (XP), Scrum, and others. Additionally, with Scrum, there are three major roles: Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Development Team.