What is Agile Methodology and its different methods?

Agile methodology is an iterative and incremental approach to project management and software development that emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, and customer satisfaction. The Agile Manifesto, published in 2001, outlines the guiding values and principles of Agile development. The key principles include responding to change, delivering working software frequently, and collaborating with customers and stakeholders.

Different Agile methods, also known as Agile frameworks or methodologies, provide specific sets of practices, roles, and ceremonies to implement Agile principles effectively. Some popular Agile methods include:

1. Scrum:

   • Overview: Scrum is one of the most widely used Agile frameworks. It divides the development process into fixed-length iterations called sprints (usually two to four weeks) and includes roles like Scrum Master, Product Owner, and Development Team.
   • Key Components: Daily Scrum meetings, Sprint Planning, Sprint Review, Sprint Retrospective, Backlog Refinement.

2. Kanban:

   • Overview: Kanban is a visual management method that helps teams manage their work by visualizing the workflow and limiting work in progress. It provides a real-time view of the team's tasks on a Kanban board.
   • Key Concepts: Visual board, Work in Progress (WIP) limits, Continuous delivery.

3. Extreme Programming (XP):

   • Overview: XP is an Agile methodology that focuses on technical excellence and collaboration. It includes practices such as pair programming, continuous integration, and test-driven development (TDD).
   • Key Practices: Pair programming, Test-driven development (TDD), Continuous integration, Refactoring.

4. Lean Software Development:

   • Overview: Lean principles, adapted from manufacturing, are applied to software development in this Agile method. It emphasizes eliminating waste, delivering value, and continuous improvement.
   • Key Principles: Eliminate waste, Amplify learning, Decide as late as possible, Deliver as fast as possible.

5. Feature-Driven Development (FDD):

   • Overview: FDD is an iterative and incremental software development methodology that focuses on building features that deliver value to the customer. It is particularly suited for larger projects.
   • Key Concepts: Feature lists, Iterative and incremental development, Inspection.

6. Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM):

   • Overview: DSDM is an Agile framework that provides a set of principles and practices for project management and software development. It aims to deliver projects on time and within budget while maintaining quality.
   • Key Principles: Focus on the business need, Deliver on time, Collaborate, Never compromise quality.

7. Crystal:

   • Overview: Crystal is a family of Agile methodologies, each tailored to specific project characteristics. It emphasizes frequent delivery, high user involvement, and simplicity.
   • Key Concepts: Reflective improvement, Frequent delivery, Osmotic communication.

8. Adaptive Software Development (ASD):

   • Overview: ASD is an Agile framework that emphasizes constant adaptation and collaboration. It focuses on the collaboration between project stakeholders, allowing for changes as the project progresses.
   • Key Characteristics: Mission-driven development, Speculation, Collaboration.

It's important to note that while these methodologies have distinct characteristics, teams often tailor and combine elements from different methods based on their specific needs and project requirements. The choice of the Agile method depends on factors such as team size, project complexity, organizational culture, and customer needs.