Agile is an iterative time-boxed approach in software development and delivery. The approach allows developers build software incrementally from the beginning of the project. It minimizes the bugs and time used in development compared to the traditional methods. Agile focuses on delivering the software in bits of user functionalities referred to as user stories. The bits are delivered in short cycles of two weeks, and they are known as iterations.

Agile Core Principles

As outlined in the Agile Manifesto, Agile methodology is based on four core principles. These principles include adaptive planning, ability to respond easily and quickly, early delivery, and continuous improvement. The principles have helped Agile to take the software development industry by storm. They have also helped Agile to earn a top spot in the industry. Agile methodology is gold certified. More and more software developers have embraced Agile methodology. In fact, over 88% of the people who have adopted the VersionOne of 2017 said that Agile’s dynamism is one of the best features they have enjoyed in the methodology.

Agile Methodology on Software Testing

On the other hand, not everyone in the software development industry has been favored by Agile. Software testers have a hard time to ensure all software’s are tested before use. This is because developing software using Agile methodology happens so fast. Therefore, the delivery of the software takes places faster that software testers can test. Testers find it hard to keep up with the pace. Maintaining quality standards of the software in the market is quite a challenge.

The Agile principles of collaboration, adaptive, and flexibility are utilized to ensure software released meets the industry standards. Agile made it possible for teams to collaborate and share their projects and get feedback. Teamwork ensures the industry standards are met, and software development takes place within a shorter period. The testing of software is narrowed to reduce the time taken by the testing process. Some imperatives are followed while narrowing the test.

• Whenever testing software, the tester prioritizes it’s requirement because it is hard and time-consuming to test everything.

• Automation of the software test is also applied to enhance efficiency.

• Speeding up the exploratory testing is done to ensure that code delivery and testing doesn’t consume much time.

• Adaptability

Other Agile Methodologies

Although Agile is universal, it is not one size fits all. Different organizations have different ways of doing things. This is the reason to why Agile can be applied anywhere. Instead, it requires customization to carry out the testing process smoothly without having issues. There are different versions of Agile methodologies to choose from depending on your needs. Some of the most popular Agile methodologies include Scrum and Kanban.

Scrum

Scrum is the most used Agile methodology. In fact, is used by over 58% of developers who have adopted the VersionOne 2017. It is designed to reduce risks whenever coming up with software. Scrum focuses on the iterative approach to defining key features and objective of the software.

Kanban

Kanban is another Agile methodology that focuses on manufacturing. It is more like a to-do list. It gives a glimpse of the task they have done, what they are doing, and what they intend to do. The methodology was initially developed by Toyota to help in boosting their worker’s productivity and increase production.

Conclusion

Agile methodology is one of the best software development methods. It has transformed the industry by raising the levels of efficiency and reducing the time taken to deliver software. The test management can also be applied in other industries to boost productivity and effectiveness.