Scrum

Scrum is an agile process framework for managing complex knowledge work, with an initial emphasis on software development. It respects and implements most of the principles described in the Manifesto for Agile Software Development and is can be associated with complementary methods. The method is inspired by empirical inspect and adapt feedback loops to cope with the complexity and risk of developing complex software.

The development process is divided into units of time called Sprint from 1 to 4 weeks, with 2 weeks being the most common. A sprint initiates with the backlog review and sets common goals to achieve. Once discussed and agreed, the work is broken down into tasks and translated into the sprint backlog with an estimated forecast for the sprint goal. At the end of the sprint, the team reviews the work, expose it to the stakeholders and set up new goals. Finally, during the sprint retrospective, the team reviews what went well, what did not go well and what could be improved.

Effective communication is key to success.

Ideas come from many places. Make sure your team is talking to the rest of the organization.The involved energies must balance methodological and technical excellence with practicality and usability. The selected projects must leverage the collective wisdom though discussions and decision making.