Agile and Lean
Agile and Lean
Enterprise architecture and agile methods can work together like a dynamic duo. Think of enterprise architecture as the solid foundation of a company, providing structure and stability. Meanwhile, agile methodologies bring flexibility to the table, allowing organizations to swiftly respond to changing needs. When combined, these two approaches can improve a company's success and adaptability.
Both Agile and Lean methods share a common goal, putting customers first. This means making sure that every architectural decision aligns with what customers need (from How Enterprise Architecture Strengthens Agile Development). To figure this out, we borrow ideas from Agile, such as gathering input and creating user stories to prioritize architectural changes based on what customers want. Agile architecture also encourages teamwork and collaboration by breaking down complex tasks into small pieces. Think of it as assembling smaller teams to tackle specific components of the architecture. We use Agile techniques like Scrum or Kanban to stay organized and respond quickly to feedback. Lean principles come into play by simplifying processes and eliminating unnecessary elements, much like decluttering a space. We regularly come together as a team to learn from our experiences, much like analyzing our performance to get better (Bente S., & Bombosch, U. 2012). This approach keeps customers at the forefront, supports gradual progress, and ensures that our architecture remains adaptable in the face of shifting business and tech landscapes.