For organizations in the software industry to succeed, they need to become agile with continuous innovation. Not only does this ensure higher visibility despite the rapid influx of products, it also gives them a competitive edge. 

But with innovation, organizations need to ensure quicker time to market. And that’s where Agile can help. 

Agile comprises a group of software development methodologies that are based on the iterative development model. In simpler terms, requirements and solutions continuously evolve through the collaboration of cross-functional teams.

Agile further relies on frequent inspection and adaption. It also encourages teamwork and accountability. As a result, it can align development with customer needs as well as the enterprise’s goals. 

But this is one of many benefits Agile delivers to help organizations improve their chances of success. 

If you’re still not agile, here are the benefits your organization is missing out on.  

1. Superior Quality 

There are many reasons why adopting Agile can improve the quality of your products. For starters, stakeholders are engaged and involved during the development process. Therefore, they can easily provide their input and have developers adapt according to current needs. 

Moreover, testing is a vital part of the project execution phase, so nothing goes unchecked. And since Agile is iterative, teams keep learning, growing, and continually improving. 

2. Added Transparency 

Agile allows stakeholders to be involved in every step of the project – from prioritizing features to planning iterations. Through frequent software builds with new features, stakeholders have a better idea of what to expect once the team is done. 

This transparency also benefits managers, providing them with great control over their projects. This, in turn, allows organization to achieve the first benefit in this blog. 

3. Quicker and Predictable Delivery 

Agile teams use time-boxed, fixed schedule sprints. That way, they can deliver quickly and frequently to stakeholders. Sprints also ensure faster time to market. Therefore, teams get the chance to beta test software and assess whether it delivers business value. 

Agile teams also benefit from the metrics used for estimating time, especially because they’re the most accurate and relevant ones out there. For instance, using lead time and cycle time helps make data-driven decisions to correct any bottlenecks. This further improves the team’s performance. 

4. Predictable Costs 

One in six IT projects suffer from 200% cost overrun. However, using Agile can counteract this issue in many ways. 

Teams work in smaller bursts. The involvement of product owners further prevents time-consuming and costly changes. This alone prevents scope creep and other excessive costs. Moreover, as is the case with time, there are metrics for estimating costs and tracking projects according to them. 

5. Focus on Customer Satisfaction 

Agile is focused on users, which is why it utilizes user stories with acceptance criteria for defining product features. As a result, it helps deliver value in addition to an IT component. This leads to greater customer satisfaction and retention. 

The satisfaction levels of product owners are also higher thanks to reduced go-to-market time. Further, they may get to enjoy the first-mover advantage and capitalize on any opportunities coming their way.

6. Reduced Risks 

Managing risks is one of the aspects which the Agile methodology addresses. Risk management is possible by prioritizing individuals and interactions over process and tools. The higher collaboration alone can reduce risks. As each team member provides their viewpoint, it is easier to achieve accurate implementation and test coverage. 

Risks are further managed since working software is the priority deliverable, not comprehensive documentation. With smaller chunks, the team can easily plan and manage risks even more effectively. Besides, customers collaborate rather than negotiate. This builds a better product that’s fit for purpose. 

Finally, risks are reduced as Agile teams respond to change rather than strictly following a plan. Agile entails planning and re-planning on a regular basis. Therefore, risks are identified, analyzed, and mitigated on a daily basis. 

7. Improved Employee Satisfaction 

According to the 2020 State of Agile Marketing Report, 40% of marketers noticed an improvement in team morale as a result of embracing this method. The report highlights several reasons for this, including:

• Workflow visualization for focused collaboration and added transparency
• Shared understanding about established processes 
• Clarity on ownership of tasks 
• Feedback loops which encourage employees to feel their opinions are valued
• Freedom to experiment and be creative
• Continuous improvement which adds to personal and team efficiency and quality 

If you’re ready to embrace Agile, now is the right time to do so. Discuss your needs with our Training Advisors and let us help you find the perfect course for you and/or your team.