Development methodologies
It’s generally known that a client (customer) may not be able to articulate their idea and exactly what they want from the outset. They may have an idea, a description of their concept, and how they envision the software, but how to implement it and the features they want remain vague until they see the product with their own eyes, so they can assess whether it’s what they want or not.
Our development methodology is based on this premise. Therefore, we designed a hybrid development methodology that relies on combining standard development methodologies with realistic business requirements, as each project and system has its own unique characteristics, circumstances, and work environment. After we begin with the following:
1. Gathering requirements (which includes all the client’s requirements, vision, and any paper models or existing systems in use, using a needs and requirements matrix we developed for this purpose).
2- Requirements Analysis (analysis of customer requirements, analysis of the system’s operating environment, the nature of the activity, the expected users, and many other factors that contribute to providing a comprehensive picture of the system and a matrix of requirements that can be verified and implemented). We have a rule that a thorough and comprehensive analysis of the operating environment helps complete work in record time and achieves a very high percentage of customer satisfaction.
3- Design of the Prototype (the intent is to design a graphical prototype that illustrates the framework and the development team’s understanding of the customer’s requirements. Discussions are held with the prototype team to determine whether the analysis team has fully grasped the general framework of the customer’s requirements. They also include any new comments and suggestions to confirm the overall framework of the system.)
4- Begin dividing the project into components and functional modules, ready for the Agile development methodology. These modules are then incorporated into the development phase of functional modules. The client is updated on progress and their comments and suggestions are taken into account.
Agile Development Methodology:
Focuses on specific features, implemented within a short period of time and presented to the client. Here, the client can see more clearly how their idea has been implemented, and we can see their reaction upon seeing the product. If there are any modifications or changes, they can be made quickly and easily, and then we can move on to the next feature until the project is fully developed.
Generally, the client cannot articulate their idea and exactly what they want from the outset. They have an idea, an explanation of their idea, and how they envision the software. However, how it will be implemented and the features they want remain vague until they see the product with their own eyes, enabling them to assess whether it is what they want.
Agile relies on delivering real prototype products over successive periods of time to the client. The client can test, evaluate, and provide feedback or identify any errors. Therefore, it is easier to overcome these errors or feedback since you are in the early stages of the project. You can move forward with greater stability and complete the next version by adding some features and functionality until the project is complete.
This methodology ensures that the initial product that will enter the next phase is effective, usable, and scalable, meeting the customer’s needs and requirements.
Agile Principles:
- Gaining customer satisfaction by delivering an effective and usable software product and adhering to delivery deadlines.
- Accepting and welcoming changes in customer requirements, even at an advanced stage of development.
Delivering usable software in the shortest possible time and at regular intervals. - Programmers and technicians must work closely with each other daily throughout the project.
- Face-to-face conversations between team members are the best and fastest way to transfer information across the team (team members usually meet daily in the morning for a 10-15-minute stand-up meeting).
- Building projects based on motivated individuals, providing them with the environment and support they need, and providing trust, appreciation, and empowerment is the appropriate environment to further motivate them to make the project a success.
- Working software (a usable product) is the primary measure of progress.
Agile encourages the continuous development of individuals, their skills, and knowledge. Sponsors and developers must be able to maintain a constant rate of progress. - Continuous focus on excellence and quality in technical development and design.
- Simplicity is a fundamental, vital, and important part of Agile—reducing unimportant and unnecessary work.
Self-organizing teams deliver optimal requirements, structure, and design. - Teams evaluate and monitor their work to become more effective, then correct errors and behavior at regular intervals.
