In the IT industry, in addition to technical skills, soft skills play a crucial role. The ability to work in a team, communication, time management, and adaptability to changes are competencies that are highly valued. One of the important elements that combine technology with soft skills are work methodologies, such as Scrum and Agile. These are popular approaches that help developers, testers, and managers collaborate effectively while carrying out IT projects.

What is Agile?

Agile is a project management philosophy that focuses on flexibility, adaptation, and continuous communication. Instead of rigid long-term plans, the team works in shorter cycles, called iterations. Each iteration is a time to create a part of the functionality that can be tested and delivered to the client.

Agile allows for:

  • quick response to changes – instead of sticking to a previously set plan, the team adapts to new information and needs;
  • constant collaboration with the client – regular meetings and project reviews help better understand needs and adapt the product to their requirements;
  • better understanding of project goals – Agile focuses on collaboration and communication, ensuring that every team member knows what is most important.

For developers and IT managers, Agile is not just a management technique but also a tool for developing soft skills. Effective communication, team collaboration, and the ability to handle changes are prioritized.

Scrum – one of the Agile methods in practice

One of the most popular work methods within the Agile philosophy is Scrum. It is a specific work framework based on Agile principles, dividing the project into so-called sprints – short periods, usually lasting from one to four weeks. Each sprint ends with the delivery of a specific functionality or part of the project.

What does work in Scrum look like?

  • Sprint planning – at the start of each sprint, the team selects the tasks they want to complete during that period. It’s important that they are realistic and achievable within the set time frame.
  • Daily meetings – short daily meetings where developers, testers, and managers discuss progress, challenges, and next steps. It’s also a time to solve current issues and agree on what can be improved.
  • Sprint review – after the sprint ends, the team presents the results of their work. This is an opportunity for the client to see the progress and provide feedback.
  • Sprint retrospective – after each sprint, the team analyzes what went well and what can be improved. This continuous process allows them to enhance their working methods.

Scrum requires IT teams not only to have technical skills but also to demonstrate effective collaboration, communication, and the ability to quickly respond to changes. Every developer, tester, or manager has the opportunity to take responsibility for their part of the project, but also to support other team members.

What skills do Scrum and Agile develop?

Agile and Scrum methodologies develop a range of soft skills that are essential in teamwork, particularly in the IT industry. Here are a few of them:

  • Communication – regular meetings require the team to exchange information clearly. Each developer, tester, or manager must be able to present progress, problems, and solutions clearly.
  • Teamwork – Agile and Scrum promote collaboration. The team works together to solve problems, which helps build relationships and trust.
  • Adaptability – changing client requirements or new information are common in Agile. The ability to adapt and cope with uncertainty is a crucial skill in this methodology.
  • Time management – working in sprints teaches how to manage time and priorities effectively. Tasks must be well estimated to achieve the desired goal within the allotted time.

Agile and Scrum methodologies show that the IT industry is not just about coding, but also about developing soft skills. Developers, testers, and managers – all benefit from tools that help them collaborate better, respond to changes, and effectively achieve goals. Working within these methodologies is a continuous learning process of communication, organization, and adaptability, which is invaluable in the rapidly changing world of technology.

Sources:

  1. Schwaber, K., & Sutherland, J. (2020). “The Scrum Guide.” Scrum.org.
  2. Beck, K., et al. (2001). “Manifesto for Agile Software Development.” Agile Manifesto.
  3. Cohn, M. (2021). “Succeeding with Agile: Software Development Using Scrum.” Addison-Wesley.