Agile Scrum Methods

Overview

One specific method of the Agile development process is Scrum. Scrum is an iterative approach to deliver usable software and other project deliverables by identifying and planning for the completion of a minimum viable product within a specified time frame.

The iterative and incremental approach used by Scrum provides teams the structure to effectively manage the inherent change of product development projects. Requirement identification and planning are significantly different from traditional project management approaches, taking a very collaborative approach that includes the full scrum team as well as direct interaction with the product owner. Through designated “ceremonies” with required “artifacts” and defined roles, the team is continuously investing efforts into features of the product that have the highest current value as defined by the product owner. Using visual management tools and techniques, such as user story cards and burn down charts, the scrum master facilitates the teams capabilities in a lean approach to development. 

This course focuses on understanding where and why agile development has become a viable option to the traditional project management approach to some projects and immerses students specifically in the Scrum methodology.