Delivery Frameworks

A methodology is how a team organizes its work to deliver software. No methodology will fix a broken strategy.

The Big Three

MethodologyProsCons
Agile (Scrum)Highly iterative, predictable cadence.Can devolve into a feature factory.
WaterfallClear upfront requirements.Inflexible to changing market conditions.
Shape Up (Basecamp)Fixed time (6 weeks), variable scope.Requires highly autonomous, senior engineering teams.

Common Mistakes

  • Dogmatism: Following a framework strictly by the book even when it slows the team down. Frameworks are tools, not religions.

FAQ

Is Agile dead?

The manifesto is alive; the bloated certification industry surrounding it is increasingly rejected by high-performing teams.