The Twelve Agile Principles (Part 1)

Derived from the four core values, the twelve principles of the Agile Manifesto provide more concrete guidance on how to implement the agile mindset in practice.

These principles provide operational guidelines detailing the preferred attitudes and approaches for developing software (or any product/service) effectively in complex environments.

They focus on customer satisfaction, adaptability, collaboration and technical excellence. The first six principles are detailed below.

P1: Customer Satisfaction (Early and Continuous Delivery)

Our top priority is to satisfy the customer through early and continuous delivery of valuable software (or product/service).

This principle emphasizes that the ultimate goal is to generate real value for the user of the product.

Early delivery allows feedback to be obtained quickly, ensuring that development is going in the right direction.

Continuity of delivery keeps the customer engaged and allows the product to adapt to their changing needs, which in turn drives business objectives.

P2: Accepting Change (Competitive Advantage)

We accept that requirements change, even in late stages of development. Agile processes leverage change to provide competitive advantage to the customer.

Instead of viewing changes as costly disruptions (as in Waterfall), agile views them as opportunities to improve the product and better align it with market needs. Surviving in today's environment requires this flexibility.

P3: Frequent Deliveries (Short Iterations)

We deliver functional software (or product/service) frequently, in periods ranging from a couple of weeks to a couple of months, preferring the shortest possible time scale.

Frequent deliveries in short cycles (iterations or sprints) allow us to validate hypotheses, get fast feedback and reduce risk.

In modern software development, this frequency can even be daily. The key is to deliver tangible value on a regular basis.

P4: Daily Collaboration (Business and Development)

Business managers and developers (or the build team) must work together on a daily basis throughout the project.

This daily collaboration ensures a shared understanding, reduces misunderstandings and enables quick and aligned decisions.

It avoids disconnect between those who define the needs (business, stakeholders, customers) and those who build the solution (development team).

P5: Motivated Individuals (Trust and Support)

Projects are developed around motivated individuals. They must be given the environment and support they need and trusted to execute the work. Agile recognizes that people are the key success factor.

A team that is motivated, empowered and trusted to make decisions about their work will perform at its best and deliver the best results. Micromanagement is counterproductive.

P6: Face-to-Face Communication (Efficiency)

The most efficient and effective method of communicating information to the development team and among its members is face-to-face conversation.

While digital tools are useful, direct communication allows for greater clarity, immediacy of feedback and capturing nonverbal nuances.

It should be prioritized whenever possible to enhance understanding and collaboration.

Summary

Derived from the values, the twelve principles offer more concrete guidance. They focus on customer satisfaction, adaptability and collaboration.

Principle 1: Satisfy the customer through early and continuous delivery of value. Principle 2: Embrace change, even late, as a competitive advantage.

Principle 3: Deliver value frequently in short iterations. Principle 4: Collaborate daily between business and developers. Principle 5: Rely on motivated individuals. Principle 6: Prioritize face-to-face communication.