Value Stream | Glossary

Definition

‘Value Streams’ are a series of steps used by an organization to build solutions and provide a flow of value to the customer, which is continuous in nature. In Scaled Agile Framework( SAFe), value streams are used to provide definition to business objectives and Portfolio-level and organize Agile Release Trains (ARTs), eventually leading to the deliverance of more value rapidly.

These Value Streams tend to deliver end-user value either directly, or support internal business processes.  Building the organization with solutions that provide a continuous value flow to a customer more rapidly is beneficial overall. Value Stream mapping is also used to identify and address delays and activities that have non-value.

Further Reading

  •  “Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) Distilled ” (book), by Richard P. Knaster.

Iterative Development | Glossary

Definition

Iterative Development is a method that breaks down the large workload of a Software Development process into smaller chunks, and in cycles. The featured code is designed, developed and tested in continuous repeated cycles. Features are added/subtracted after each iteration so as to develop the software in its best possible condition to be deployed.

Iterative development is a key practice in Agile Development Methodology. It is a contrast with the traditional Waterfall Method, in which Development Cycle is ‘Gated’. The purpose of working in iterations is to allow more flexibility and change.  Every cycle brings more possibilities of improving the functionality of the product and towards finally building a great end product.

Further Reading

  •  “Agile and Iterative Development Complete Self-Assessment Guide” (book), by Gerardus Blokdyk .