Agile and Scrum method: all you need to know

The rapid evolution of markets and technologies has led organizations to review their project management methods. It is in this dynamic context that the Agile Scrum method emerges as a beacon, guiding teams towards a more flexible and collaborative approach to development.

Agile Scrum, a fusion of two powerful concepts, offers an iterative and collaborative project management structure. Agile, for its adaptability to constant change, and Scrum, for its organized framework that maximizes team efficiency.

By integrating transition management , Agile Scrum becomes a strategic tool for companies that aspire to successfully adapt to a constantly changing world.

Definition of the Agile and Scrum method: What is it?

Far from being reserved for developers alone, as we sometimes tend to imagine, the agile method can be used in a wide variety of fields of application. It thus finds its place in marketing or project management, for example. The Agile method is based on the agile manifesto , which was signed in 2001. This manifesto brings together seventeen representatives of the greatest experts in the development of computer applications. It lays the foundations of the method and structures its implementation.

It is above all a question of respecting four fundamental principles: according to the agile manifesto, it is necessary to grant more importance

• To individuals, and their interactions with each other, than to tools and processes.
• Has working software rather than extensive documentation
• Exchanges with customers rather than contractual negotiation
• Has the ability to adapt to change rather than to carrying out a plan.

Concretely, the execution of the agile method goes through twelve fundamental principles , among which:

• the priority given to the customer and his satisfaction, thanks to the regular delivery of high value-added functionalities
• regular collaboration between users and developers throughout the project
• the maximum reduction of unnecessary work
• regular feedback on the work provided and on the areas for improvement to be considered.

Scrum is a framework , which is used to implement the agile method. There is a tendency to confuse the two, however we can summarize the difference by stating that the agile method is a set of principles and that scrum is a method to implement them (we usually compare the agile method to a diet and scrum to cooking recipes linked to principles).

How to implement the Agile method in a team?

Opting for the Agile Scrum method is a fundamental decision. The principle of scrum is to break down the project into different tasks , called “ sprints ”. These sprints can be of variable duration, ranging from a few hours to a few weeks. At the end of each sprint, the team meets to take stock of the actions implemented and the areas for improvement.

Consistency in the choice of Agile Scrum

A key aspect of this implementation: the fusion of the Agile SCRUM method with Extreme Programming (XP) best practices. This strategic alliance combines agility and technical excellence, creating a synergy that optimizes the development process. The objective is to ensure smooth progress while guaranteeing the quality of the results.

At the same time, the development of the COPEN environment (Collaboration, Openness, Fullness, Experimentation, Level of attention) is crucial. COPEN goes beyond simple methodology to establish a corporate culture promoting transparency, collaboration, and innovation. By integrating these three elements – Agile Scrum, XP and COPEN – consistency in the choice of methods becomes the cornerstone of Agile transformation .

Tools and practices for collective competence

Exploring the practical aspects is essential to ensure a smooth transition to Agility. From collaborative project management tools to transparent communication practices, each element helps build team cohesion and effectiveness.

An example of the Agile Scrum method is the implementation of regular meetings called “Daily Stand-up” or “Daily Scrum”. These short daily meetings, generally limited to 15 minutes, bring the team together to discuss progress, obstacles encountered and the day’s objectives.

Using a Scrum board, physical or virtual, is also a powerful visual tool. This table, divided into columns such as “To do”, “In progress” and “Done”, provides a clear view of the progress of tasks. Each member of the team can quickly understand what is happening and identify any blockages, which facilitates the balanced distribution of tasks.

What is the Brown Bag Lunch?

The Brown Bag Lunch is a relaxed and collaborative approach to understanding the Agile Scrum method. It’s a sharing of experiences on successes, challenges and tips, which reinforces the understanding of Scrum beyond the manuals, all in a friendly setting.

Combination of UX and the Agile Scrum Method

User experience (UX) and Agile Scrum form a powerful duo for attracting new prospects. By integrating UX from the earliest phases of development, teams can create products and services that truly meet user needs. The Scrum method, with its rapid iterations and continuous feedback, aligns perfectly with the user-centered principles of UX . This allows features to be quickly adjusted based on user feedback, ensuring an optimal and engaging user experience.

Beyond the user aspect, the combination of UX and the Agile Scrum Method offers considerable advantages in terms of productivity:

• Scrum’s short development cycles , combined with constant attention to UX, enable continuous and rapid product improvement.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration promotes fluid communication between design and development teams, speeding up the creative process.
• This joint approach leads to better productivity thanks to the synergistic work of the teams.

What impact in transition management?

An interim manager finds his place in a project in scrum mode . He intervenes on precisely defined projects, and limited in time. These projects are usually simple to break down into different steps.

As an element external to the company, the transition manager has the necessary perspective to determine the different sprints , put in place the necessary measurement tools and set precise objectives for his team at each stage.

Do our Managers use this method?

Among our 10,000 Managers available, a good number of our interim managers have perfect command of the agile and scrum method . Do you want to manage your project in agile mode? Contact us!