AGILE METHODS AT AIKU.

At Aiku, we use Agile Methodologies (Agile) to deliver software quickly, while maintaining a high level of quality and customer satisfaction.

We understand Agile is an iterative and incremental approach to software development that emphasises flexibility, collaboration, and continuous improvement. It is based on the Agile Manifesto, which was created in 2001 by a group of software development experts. Its main principles include:

• Customer satisfaction
  The highest priority is to satisfy the customer through early and continuous delivery of valuable software.

• Working software
  Deliver working software frequently, with a preference for shorter timescales.

• Collaboration
  Business people and developers must work together daily throughout the project.

• Responding to change
  Agile processes harness change for the customer's competitive advantage.

• Individuals and interactions
  Build projects around motivated individuals. Give them the environment and support they need, and trust them to get the job done.

• Emphasis on communication
  The most efficient and effective method of conveying information to and within a development team is face-to-face conversation.

• Working software as a measure of progress
  Agile processes promote sustainable development. The sponsors, developers, and users should be able to maintain a constant pace indefinitely.

Agile typically involves breaking down a project into small, manageable components that can be completed in short timeframes, known as sprints. The development team works closely with the customer or product owner to identify and prioritise the most important features to develop in each iteration.

During each iteration (in Scrum referred to as “sprint”), the team designs, develops, tests, and delivers a working piece of software. At the end of the iteration, the team reviews the work and adjusts the project plan as needed. This allows the team to respond quickly to changing requirements and feedback from the customer.