Agile and Iterative Development: A Manager‘s Guide

Agile and iterative methods have emerged as the most popular approaches to software development, and with good reason. Research (examined and cited in detail within this book) shows that iterative methods reduce the risk of failure, compared to traditional models of development. This book is an efficient introduction for both managers and practitioners that need a distilled and carefully organized learning aid for the hands–on practices from planning to requirements to testing and the values that define these methods. The author also provides evidence of the value of switching to agile and iterative methods. By studying this book, the reader will learn to apply the key ideas in agile and iterative development, the details and comparison of four influential iterative methods (Scrum, Extreme Programming, Evo, and the Unified Process), answers to frequently asked questions, and important related management skills. The book‘s goal is quality information that can be quickly understood and applied.

From the back cover:

Agile/iterative methods: From business case to successful implementation

This is the definitive guide for managers and students to agile and iterative development methods: what they are, how they work, how to implement them and why you should.

Using statistically significant research and large–scale case studies, noted methods expert Craig Larman presents the most convincing case ever made for iterative development. Larman offers a concise, information–packed summary of the key ideas that drive all agile and iterative processes, with the details of four noteworthy iterative methods: Scrum, XP, RUP, and Evo. Coverage includes:

• Compelling evidence that iterative methods reduce project risk
• Frequently asked questions
• Agile and iterative values and practices
• Dozens of useful iterative and agile practice tips
• New management skills for agile/iterative project leaders
• Key practices of Scrum, XP, RUP, and Evo

Whether you‘re an IT executive, project manager, student of software engineering, or developer, Craig Larman will help you understand the promise of agile/iterative development, sell it throughout your organizationaeand transform the promise into reality.

About the Author:

CRAIG LARMAN is known throughout the international software community as an expert and passionate advocate for object–oriented technologies and development, and iterative and agile development methods. He serves as Chief Scientist at Valtech, a global consulting and skills transfer company, where he has led the adoption of iterative and agile methods. Larman also authored Applying UML and Patterns, the world‘s best–selling text on object–oriented analysis and design, and iterative development.