Agility in Startup Ventures

Agile is often described as developing software in iterations. However, a more useful view is that it is about building business in increments.

We incorporate Agile Software Development methods in our project management consulting projects, and have successfully employed several of the techniques including:-

  • User Stories
  • Iteration Planning Meetings
  • Daily Stand-up meeting (developers and project manager)
  • Short milestones - 3 to 5 weeks

Perhaps the biggest benefit to the customer is that they see their software being constructed quickly through rapid iterations.

Startup ventures deal with significant uncertainties in the perception of their product offering by the industry. Being Agile is but one tool in the arsenal that can help overcome these uncertainties. Agility ensures the product being developed will meet the customer's requirements.

Other helpful suggestions:

  • Startups typically deal with long lists of tasks that quickly become frustrating. This can be depressing for any development team, especially when pushing for an early successful milestone. Quick milestone achievements can keep the team motivated.
  • Prioritze and break up the task list into short tasks - plan and celebrate each milestone (even when they seems small and insignificant!)
  • Talk to real customers - early and often. Get “early adopters” to provide feedback - adjust features and functionality as the feedback comes in.