* Agile software development methodology is a process of developing software just like other models. However, the Agile model is quite different from the traditional development models used in the software industry. In the traditional models like the Waterfall Model, Iterative Model etc., the development team worked on the software and the client may not get to see the application until completion of the project which would take months or even years to complete. There is low level interaction with the client until completion. Upon completion of the project, if the Client didn’t find the software meeting his specified requirements, a lot of time, efforts and resources go wasted in redesigning the application.
* Agile model, as the name suggests, is very flexible or adaptive in nature. The Agile model is also known as the Incremental Model. Software is developed in incremental and rapid cycles called sprints. Each sprint is an incremental update that builds on the previous release. Each sprints varies from two weeks to two months. Every release is then thoroughly tested to ensure software quality is maintained and only then the model moves on to the next sprint. All the releases are shared with the client to confirm that the software is designed exactly how the client wants it. This leads to more interaction between the client, testers and the developing team to ensure good understanding of the requirements and development of a good product. This method helps in early identification of potential issues that can arise later with the current version of the application. New changes and last minute modifications can be made instantly. This reduces the consumption of resources in redeveloping the software that didn’t work out as expected later.
* Since the client is always updated with the advancement of the application after short intervals, the client is much satisfied with the quick and continuous delivery of useful software. This method helps eliminate risks and ensures quick execution of time bound applications. Extreme Programing (XP) is currently one of the most well-known Agile life cycle model