Agile Series Edition #1: Four reasons Agile isn't working for you

There’s plenty of expectation when companies use Agile methodologies to help deliver successful projects, but what about the common pitfalls? Here’s a list of four challenges that companies have seen, and in some cases, are still seeing…

1. Thrashing

When a hard drives receives multiple requests and spends more time moving heads than reading data, this is known as thrashing. Usually manifested as the business changes priorities, the same is seen in software development. The more time spent stopping, starting and shelving means less time is used for adding value. Focus on doing one task well, not five tasks badly.

2. Waiting for the Stand-up

Picture the scenario; a problem is found just after the stand-up – how many developers do you know that wait for the next day? They will spend the whole day trying to fix an issue, or waiting for clarification on a requirement. Every delay hurts progress, so focus on open collaboration and communication. It’s a culture worth nurturing.

3. Definition of Done

Are you clear what you mean when you ask “Is it done?” Does it mean the development is complete or testing? What about being ready to deploy, or has it been deployed? It’s the most commonly seen muddy area in Agile projects. Start with a definition and revisit it regularly; this will help stabilise the velocity and reduce potential friction.

4. Scope Cram

Yes, you read that right – CRAM. When a project is finally started, the stakeholders believe this is the only chance they’ll get and so shoehorn every requirement they can think of, every moment they think of it. The result of this is reduced motivation for the team and a struggle to focus on the purpose of the work; it also ultimately means that the same ethos will bleed to subsequent projects. Working closely with a product owner who has a clear vision and the ability to represent the business is key. They can stop the cram from happening or reduce the noise and focus on the objective; VALUE.

- Leon Vincent, Application Development Manager at Gocompare.com

Leon has worked in and around Agile for the last 10 years. He currently works with a skilled team of architects, developers and testers to deliver cross-platform solutions for the leading price comparison site Gocompare.com. He focusses on Agile development methodologies, from Kanban to Scrum. His background was as a developer specialising firstly in LAMP and later the Microsoft stack.

Gocompare.com is currently recruiting for an Application Developer. Click here to find out more about the role, and to apply simply contact recruitment@gocompare.com

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