What are the four agile methods?

Four Main Agile Methods

There are four primary Agile methods: Scrum, Kanban, Extreme Programming (XP), and Lean. Each method has its unique practices and principles that support Agile's core values.

1. Scrum

Scrum is a framework that facilitates team collaboration on complex projects. It emphasizes iterative progress through sprints, typically lasting 1 to 4 weeks. Scrum roles include the Scrum Master, Product Owner, and Development Team.

• Sprints: Time-boxed iterations for delivering increments of work.
• Scrum Events: Daily Standups, Sprint Reviews, and Retrospectives.
• Artifacts: Product Backlog, Sprint Backlog, and Increment.

2. Kanban

Kanban focuses on visualizing work and limiting work in progress (WIP). It allows teams to manage flow and improve efficiency by using a Kanban board to track tasks.

• Visual Management: Tasks are represented visually to enhance transparency.
• WIP Limits: Restrictions on the number of tasks in progress to optimize flow.
• Continuous Delivery: Work is delivered as soon as it's completed.

3. Extreme Programming (XP)

XP is centered around engineering practices to improve software quality and responsiveness to changing requirements. It emphasizes customer satisfaction and frequent releases.

• Pair Programming: Two developers work together at one workstation.
• Test-Driven Development (TDD): Writing tests before coding to ensure functionality.
• Frequent Releases: Small, incremental updates to the software.

4. Lean

Lean principles aim to maximize value by minimizing waste. This method focuses on optimizing resources and streamlining processes.

• Value Stream Mapping: Identifying and eliminating waste in processes.
• Continuous Improvement: Ongoing efforts to enhance products, services, or processes.
• Empowering Teams: Encouraging team autonomy and decision-making.

Understanding these methods allows teams to choose the best approach for their specific context. ThinkLouder, a Scrum Alliance Licensed Training Provider, offers various certifications like CSM and CSPO to deepen your Agile knowledge. Classes start at $349. For more information, check our certification page.

For further reading, see our article on Agile Transformations or explore the differences between Agile and Waterfall in Agile vs Waterfall.