Agile Values

Agile methodologies are based on core values and principles that help teams achieve more effective and efficient project management. In the first chapter, we briefly mentioned these core values. Let's now discuss the four core values of the Agile Manifesto in more detail.

Customer Collaboration over Contract Negotiation

Agile prioritizes customer collaboration over contract negotiation. This means actively working with customers to understand their needs and incorporate their feedback throughout the project. The goal is to ensure the final product meets their expectations and provides maximum value. Instead of rigidly adhering to contract terms, Agile teams focus on maintaining a transparent and cooperative relationship with customers, allowing for adjustments based on real-time feedback and changing requirements.

Responding to Change over Following a Plan

Agile embraces change as an integral part of the development process. Traditional project management often emphasizes strict adherence to a predefined plan, but Agile recognizes that requirements can evolve. By valuing responding to change over following a plan, Agile teams remain flexible and adaptive, allowing them to pivot and make necessary adjustments as new information and priorities emerge. This approach helps ensure the project stays relevant and aligned with the customer's needs.

Individuals and Interactions over Processes and Tools

Agile values individuals and interactions over processes and tools. This means prioritizing direct communication and collaboration among team members. While processes and tools are important, they should not hinder effective teamwork. Agile promotes a culture where team members work closely together, share ideas, and solve problems collaboratively. By fostering strong interpersonal relationships and open communication, Agile teams can respond more effectively to challenges and deliver higher-quality outcomes.

Working Software over Comprehensive Documentation

In Agile, working software is valued over comprehensive documentation. The primary measure of progress is the delivery of functional software that provides value to the customer. While documentation is still important, it should not be so extensive that it slows down the development process or becomes an obstacle to delivering working software. Agile teams focus on creating just enough documentation to support development and future maintenance, allowing them to spend more time on coding, testing, and delivering usable software.