The benefits of this methodology are simple:
As always, we begin your project according to the MentorMate Way - determining your business needs first and designing from the user perspective. Next, we work with you to create a project backlog of priorities that need to happen throughout the project.
Once the backlog is created, we begin your project by working in quick, pre-defined bursts of time - "sprints" - that typically last for two weeks. For each sprint, a Sprint Backlog is created with specific details for the work to be done over the sprint's duration. Following the sprint, you'll receive a piece of working code that you can test and that you will own. We also create a burn chart - a chart that shows everyone how much work has been done on the current sprint versus how much is remaining.
Your business needs can change as a project goes on, but these hurdles shouldn't trip up the project. Following each sprint, we take a day to revisit the backlog and assess the sprint that has just taken place. At this time, the backlog can be reordered, with certain features on your project moving up to the front, or some being pushed to the backburner. New features can be added, or old ones subtracted. Your needs are always at the forefront of our minds.
Two weeks is a quick turnaround, but it's too long to be out of communication with your vendor - you need to be in the loop every day. With our SCRUM methodology, we give you the option of participating in our brief "stand-ups" every morning. These are typically 5-10 minute meetings to status updates on the project that allow concerns to be voiced. The three main questions addressed in each of these meetings are:
You need insight into your project at a ground level. These meetings are brief, and simple, but go a long way in building a strong sense of trust and good personal relationships between your team and MentorMate.
Agile offers real-time development for your real-time life. By receiving pieces of code in your hand every few weeks, you end with a malleable methodology that lets you customize as you go. This level of adaptability isn't ideal for everyone. Some require a more conventional way of thinking and a more structured development process. If you're in need of a more traditional approach to development, head over to our Waterfall Methodology page!
If you think you're ready to try agile development for your project, let us know! If you've got an idea, but need some help fleshing out all of the details, fill out our contact form. We'll respond to you within one business day and get you the next step you need! Any other questions? Call us at 1.877.450.7772!