Take Your Iterative Development Practices to the Next Level

Whether you are using the Rational Unified Process (RUP), agile methods, spiral development, or a home grown iterative approach, there are some fundamental practices that can make a big difference. Esther Derby looks at ways to manage schedules and resources, keep progress visible, mitigate risk, and dynamically improve estimates throughout the project. After comparing and contrasting popular iterative process models, Esther offers practical, easy to implement practices to enhance your current process. You will take away some process "gems" that she has collected in her consulting practice, including: use of product backlogs for driving ownership and priorities, burn down charts, ROI measures of requirements, and ways to obtain vital feedback at every iteration.

• The advantages and disadvantages of different iterative development models
• A return on investment (ROI) measure for more detailed requirements
• "Burn down" charts to show progress and make decisions