Which comes first, Scrum or Agile?

Agile comes first, and Scrum is a framework that operates within the Agile methodology.

Explanation:

  1. Agile is a methodology or philosophy that was introduced first. It emerged from the need to manage software development projects more flexibly and iteratively, allowing teams to respond to changing requirements and deliver value incrementally. Agile is based on the Agile Manifesto, which was created in 2001 and outlines the key values and principles of Agile, emphasizing collaboration, customer feedback, and adaptive planning.

  2. Scrum is a framework that implements Agile principles. It was developed in the 1990s before the formal Agile Manifesto but is considered one of the most widely used Agile frameworks. Scrum provides a structured process for teams to work in sprints, define roles like Scrum Master and Product Owner, and follow specific practices such as daily stand-ups, sprint reviews, and retrospectives. Scrum is one way to practice Agile, but there are other frameworks like Kanban and Lean as well.

Summary:

  • Agile is the overarching philosophy that guides how teams should work.
  • Scrum is one specific framework for implementing Agile principles in a structured way.

So, Agile comes first, and Scrum is one way to put Agile principles into practice.

TAGS
Coding Interview
System Design Interview
CONTRIBUTOR
Arslan Ahmad
Arslan Ahmad
ex-FAANG engineering manager and author or Grokking series.
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