Development Approach and Lifecycle Performance Domain

 

Summary of Development Approach and Lifecycle Performance Domain

1. Definition and Importance:

   • This domain focuses on selecting the right development approach and lifecycle for delivering the project work.
   • The development approach determines how deliverables are created and evolved throughout the project lifecycle.
   • Every project is unique, so choosing the appropriate approach is essential for success.

2. Key Elements of the Domain:

   • Development Approaches:
     • Predictive (Traditional): Fixed scope, sequential delivery.
     • Adaptive (Agile): Iterative and incremental delivery with flexibility for changes.
     • Hybrid: Combination of predictive and adaptive methods.
   • Delivery Cadence:
     • Refers to the timing and frequency of deliverables.
     • Some projects require a single delivery (e.g., cars, houses), while others can deliver incrementally (e.g., software).
   • Project Lifecycle:
     • Consists of phases that facilitate the delivery cadence and development approach.
     • Examples:
       • Software: Feasibility → Design → Build → Test → Deploy.
       • Construction: Gather requirements → Design → Build → Obtain permits → Close.

3. Factors Influencing Development Approach:

   • Innovation Level: Highly innovative projects may favor Agile for iterative refinement.
   • Requirements Certainty: High certainty may suit predictive methods; uncertainty suits adaptive methods.
   • Scope Stability: Stable scopes favor predictive; flexible scopes favor adaptive.
   • Risk and Safety Requirements: High safety requirements often necessitate predictive approaches.
   • Regulations: Regulatory-heavy projects often align with predictive methods.
   • Stakeholder and Organizational Preferences:
     • Stakeholder expectations and organizational culture/capabilities play a significant role.
   • Team Dynamics:
     • Team size, location, and diversity influence the approach (e.g., virtual teams may suit Agile).

4. Outcomes of the Domain:

   • Reliable Development Approach:
     • The selected approach aligns with the project deliverables and stakeholder expectations.
   • Value Delivery:
     • Lifecycle phases connect business and stakeholder value from start to finish.
   • Facilitated Delivery Cadence:
     • Phases and cadence align with the required tempo of development, testing, and deployment.

5. Key Checks for Success:

   • Does the development approach suit the deliverables and project requirements?
   • Are lifecycle phases delivering value consistently from start to end?
   • Is the cadence appropriate for the type of project (single vs. iterative delivery)?

6. Flexibility in Approach:

   • There is no one-size-fits-all solution.
   • The best development approach is the one that:
     • Aligns with stakeholder expectations.
     • Produces deliverables efficiently and effectively.
     • Delivers value throughout the project.

7. Example Scenarios:

   • Predictive: Building a house requires a sequential lifecycle with full delivery at project completion.
   • Agile: Developing software in modules allows incremental delivery and iterative refinement.
   • Hybrid: A product that combines physical manufacturing (predictive) and software integration (adaptive).

8. Highlighted Points:

   • Focus on Value: The chosen approach must maximize stakeholder satisfaction and project outcomes.
   • Stakeholder Alignment: The success of the project depends on selecting an approach that meets stakeholder needs.
   • Adaptability: Each project is unique, and the approach should be tailored to its specific context.

Key Takeaway:

The right development approach and lifecycle are crucial for project success. Understanding the project context, stakeholder needs, and organizational culture ensures the chosen approach delivers value effectively. "The best approach is the one that makes your stakeholders happy and delivers value."