7 Important Types of Agile Methodologies

In the dynamic world of software development, agility has become a crucial aspect of successful project management. Agile methodologies have gained immense popularity for their ability to adapt to changing requirements. It includes promoting collaboration and delivering high-quality products efficiently.

Developers and stakeholders can take various approaches to software development. One of the most effective methods is the agile delivery model, which emphasizes continuous iteration in the development and testing stages.

According to recent surveys, the adoption rate of different agile frameworks has continued to increase steadily in 2025. It is estimated that over 80% of organizations worldwide have embraced agile in some form, indicating a widespread recognition of their benefits in delivering successful projects.

Agile is a way for teams to collaborate on a project. It divides the work into stages and involves customers throughout the process. The team monitors progress at each stage. Unlike traditional methods, the agile business model enables simultaneous development and testing, keeping them in sync. When paired with DevOps consulting services, organizations can optimize this synergy further, ensuring faster, more reliable outcomes.

As we enter 2025, we must explore the 7 essential types of agile methodologies that continue to shape the industry. Organizations worldwide have embraced these methodologies, highlighting their impact on project success rates and customer satisfaction. Before delving into these methodologies, let’s first understand the various agile methodologies and their underlying principles.

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What is Agile Methodology?

What is agile methodology? Before we answer that, let’s go back to its early days.

Agile was introduced in 2001, and the agile manifesto was released. This document introduced four important truths and 12 principles that significantly changed the software development world. Now, let’s tackle the central question: What exactly is an agile methodology?

There are different opinions on whether agile is a methodology or not. Some believe it’s not just a methodology but a set of principles and beliefs, almost like a software development “philosophy” or “religion.” Implementing those principles through various agile events, traditions, and methods forms different types of agile methodology.

Agile methodologies guide actions that align with the agile delivery model, values, and principles. They also show the steps and approaches to working effectively in an agile manner.

Team collaboration is a fundamental value in implementing the agile methodology. Agile methodologies help us work together efficiently when developing complex software by guiding the best collaboration methods. The ultimate aim is to make customers happier with each software release.

History of Agile Methodology – Tracing Its Origins and Evolution

Agile originated from decades of innovation, hands-on experimentation, and a commitment to continuous improvement. Long before the Agile Manifesto was written, various frameworks and iterative approaches laid the foundation for what we now call agile methodologies. These early influences shaped how organizations drive innovation today, from Kanban to Incremental and Iterative Development (IID).

But what are agile methodologies, and how did they evolve? More importantly, what are the different types of agile methodologies, and why do they matter to today’s enterprises? Let’s explore how these foundational methods led to the modern agile methodologies list we use today.

1) Kanban

If Agile has a grandfather, Kanban is it. Initially developed by Toyota in the 1940s, Kanban revolutionized manufacturing and workflow management.

How Kanban Influenced Agile:

• Visualizing Workflows: Kanban introduced real-time task tracking, reducing bottlenecks.
• Continuous Improvement: It focused on incremental changes rather than big-bang transformations.
• Efficiency Through Flow: Limiting work-in-progress (WIP) improved delivery speed and minimized waste.

Today, Kanban remains a key player among the various agile methodologies. It enables companies to manage workflows dynamically while maintaining adaptability. It has seamlessly integrated into various agile methodologies, making it a core part of agile framework types used in software development and business operations.

2) Incremental and Iterative Development (IID)

Before Scrum and SAFe, there was Incremental and Iterative Development (IID), a method that dates back to the 1950s and 1960s in software engineering and military systems. IID laid the groundwork for all types of agile software development.

How IID Shaped Agile Framework Types:

• Breaking Work into Small Pieces: IID introduced early feedback loops, refining the product at each step.
• Parallel Development: Teams worked in short iterations, improving productivity and reducing risk.
• Customer-Centric Approach: Unlike waterfall methods, IID enabled continuous user feedback, ensuring that end products met expectations.

IID directly inspired Scrum, XP, and other agile methodologies, reinforcing the benefits of agile development methodology by delivering value faster and improving software reliability.

3) Spiral Model

Barry Boehm introduced the spiral model in the 1980s. It blended iterative development with risk analysis, a concept central to today’s types of agile development.

Spiral Model’s Influence on Agile:

• Risk-Driven Approach: Agile inherited the Spiral Model’s emphasis on frequent reassessment and adaptation.
• Prototyping: Early software versions were tested before full-scale development, a key principle in different agile methodologies.
• Customer Collaboration: Continuous stakeholder engagement met evolving business needs.

Many agile framework types, such as SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework) and Disciplined Agile, have roots in the principles of the Spiral Model.

4) Lean Software Development

Lean Software Development guided efficiency-driven projects long before the term “agile software development” became a buzzword. Inspired by Lean Manufacturing, this approach emphasized waste reduction, continuous delivery, and customer value.

Lean’s Contribution to Agile:

• Eliminate Waste: Prioritize only value-driven tasks to optimize time and resources.
• Enabling Teams: Encourage collaborative decision-making, a hallmark of all agile methods.
• Fast Delivery: Deliver working software early and often, reinforcing the benefits of agile development methodology.

The types of agile methodology we use today, especially Kanban and SAFe, draw heavily from Lean’s principles.

5) Extreme Programming (XP)

XP emerged in the late 1990s, right before the Agile Manifesto. Unlike traditional methods, XP prioritized rapid releases, customer involvement, and technical excellence—all vital in today’s types of agile software development.

How XP Revolutionized Agile Framework Types:

• Test-Driven Development (TDD): Ensuring code quality through continuous testing and iteration.
• Pair Programming: Strengthening collaboration, now a staple in different agile methodologies.
• Frequent Releases: Delivering value every 1-2 weeks, reinforcing the benefits of agile development methodology.

Today, Scrum, SAFe, and DevOps integrate XP’s principles, demonstrating what agile methodologies are all about—speed, collaboration, and quality.

Useful link: How Agile and IT Service Management can Work Together?

Agile Principles

Here are 12 essential principles that continue to shape agile program management practices:

1) Customer satisfaction is the top priority, and we achieve that by delivering results quickly and consistently.

2) They welcome changes in the environment at any point in the process to give the customer an edge over the competition.

3) Products or services are delivered more frequently.

4) Stakeholders and developers work closely every day, collaborating and communicating with each other regularly.

5) All stakeholders and team members stay motivated to achieve the best project results. Teams are equipped with the necessary tools, support, and trust to achieve their project goals.

6) Face-to-face meetings are considered the most efficient and effective way to ensure project success.

7) The ultimate measure of success is a completed and functional product.

8) The Agile process enables sustainable development by ensuring that development teams and stakeholders can maintain a steady and continuous pace.

9) Agility is improved by consistently prioritizing technical excellence and proper design.

10) Keeping things simple is crucial.

11) Teams that can organize themselves are more likely to create the best designs and meet requirements successfully.

12) Teams use regular intervals to improve efficiency by adjusting small behaviors.

Core Values of Agile Manifesto

The Agile Manifesto, introduced in 2001, outlined four key values that serve as the foundation for all types of agile development frameworks. These values aren’t just principles—they drive the effectiveness of agile methodologies, which organizations rely on today.

1) People and Interactions Over Tools and Processes

Why It Matters:

The best tools and frameworks mean nothing if teams lack collaboration and adaptability. Successful agile methodologies prioritize communication, teamwork, and human-driven problem-solving over rigid processes.

How It Powers Different Agile Methodologies:

• Scrum and Kanban thrive on continuous collaboration between developers, stakeholders, and customers.
• XP (Extreme Programming) enhances software quality by encouraging pair programming and team discussions.
• SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework) fosters alignment across multiple teams, ensuring that large enterprises maintain agility.

2) Working Software Over Comprehensive Documentation

Why It Matters:

In traditional development, teams spend months creating detailed documentation before writing a single line of code. Agile flips this approach, prioritizing delivering functional, high-quality products as quickly as possible.

How It Powers Different Agile Framework Types:

• Scrum teams work in short sprints, continuously delivering working software.
• Lean and Kanban frameworks eliminate waste by focusing only on what brings immediate value.
• XP methodology ensures that testing and development are parallel to improve speed and quality.

3) Customer Collaboration Over Contract Negotiation

Why It Matters:

Traditional project management focuses on strict contracts and predefined requirements. Agile methodologies prioritize continuous customer involvement, ensuring businesses deliver what users need, not what was planned months in advance.

How It Powers Different Agile Methodologies:

• Scrum incorporates customer feedback in every sprint review.
• Lean encourages direct communication with stakeholders to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Feature-driven development (FDD) ensures that customer needs guide feature creation.

4) Responding to Change Over Following a Plan

Why It Matters:

Rigid plans fail in unpredictable markets. Agile software development prioritizes flexibility, enabling organizations to adjust their strategies in response to real-world changes.

How It Powers Types of Agile Development Frameworks:

• SAFe helps large enterprises strike a balance between long-term planning and short-term agility.
• Scrum encourages reassessing priorities at the end of every sprint.
• Kanban provides real-time adjustments without disrupting workflows.

Types Of Agile Methodologies

Agile means organizing projects using the principles and values outlined in the Agile Manifesto. Various methodologies exist, so there is no single correct way to implement the most popular agile methodology. Here is the 7 agile methodologies list.

1) Kanban

Kanban is a straightforward, visual project management method that enables teams to track progress and upcoming tasks. It organizes and manages tasks using a Kanban board with three columns: “To Do,” “Doing,” and “Done.”

Kanban suits teams with tasks of varying sizes and frequently changing product requirements. However, the Kanban methodology is not as straightforward as Scrum, so it may not be suitable for inexperienced agile teams.

Kanban is often recommended for smaller teams that work on repetitive tasks and can operate independently without relying heavily on others. It is a good option if your team values fast product delivery and has a firm understanding of agile best practices.

2) Scrum

Scrum and Kanban share an approach. Both use a Scrum board, similar to a Kanban board, to organize tasks based on progress. However, Scrum differs in breaking the agile program management software into sprints and managing them individually. Scrum also has specific roles, such as a master and a product owner.

Scrum is a versatile choice for teams of any size, whether experienced or new to agile implementation. It is especially suitable for teams that feel Scrum’s rigid rules limit productivity.

Scrum benefits teams working in fast-paced environments by allowing them to handle multiple products simultaneously. It is also a good fit for teams that need more flexibility in estimating requirements from agile team management.

3) Extreme Programming (XP)

Extreme Programming (XP) is a software development methodology designed for agile development. It emphasizes continuous development and delivery to the customer. Like Scrum, it uses intervals or sprints. However, XP also has 12 specific processes designed for software development. These processes are tailored to ensure efficient and effective software development.

• Simple design
• Refactoring
• Pair programming
• Metaphor
• Collective code ownership
• Small releases
• Test-driven development
• Coding standards
• Planning game
• Sustainable pace
• Customer acceptance tests
• Continuous integration

XP suits teams with various skill levels, mainly when junior and senior programmers collaborate. It also benefits teams facing tight deadlines, limited budgets, and frequent changes in agile project management software requirements.

However, XP may not be the best choice for remote teams. It works best with small teams co-located in the exact physical location.

4) Feature-Driven Development (FDD)

Feature-driven development (FDD) is related to agile frameworks specifically designed for software development. It involves creating software models every two weeks and requires a detailed development and design plan for each model feature. FDD has stricter documentation requirements than XP, making it suitable for teams with advanced design and planning skills. FDD breaks agile project management software down into five main activities.

• Build a feature list.
• Design by feature
• Plan by feature
• Build by feature
• Develop an overall model

FDD agile method is helpful for big software projects, especially in finance and banking. It helps speed up feature releases. However, it’s not suitable for smaller projects. Consider using it when your project becomes too complex for a regular Scrum team, especially in organizations where only software development teams follow agile tools.

Useful link: Waterfall Vs. Agile Vs. DevOps- Which Production Method Should You Take?

5) Lean

Lean development is often associated with the agile delivery model, but it’s a distinct methodology with similar values. The leading principles of Lean methodology such as:

• Respect people
• Defer commitment
• Deliver fast
• Optimize the whole
• Continuously acquire and expand knowledge
• Reducing waste
• Focus on ensuring high quality from the beginning

The Lean methodology would benefit reliable teams with expertise that can be trusted to make crucial decisions independently.

The Lean methodology works best for smaller teams that work well together and can handle more detailed documentation. However, it may not be as suitable for larger teams or those that struggle with cohesion.

6) Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM)

The Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM) was designed to provide a standardized framework for fast software delivery. DSDM acknowledges that changes and rework are regular and emphasizes the importance of reversibility. Like Scrum, XP, and FDD, DSDM employs sprints or iterative cycles. This framework relies on eight fundamental principles.

• Build incrementally from firm foundations.
• Communicate continuously and clearly.
• Focus on the business need.
• Collaborate
• Deliver on time
• Demonstrate control
• Develop iteratively
• Never compromise quality

DSDM agile frameworks are suitable for small, medium, and large projects, including complex ones. They’re a good choice for teams comfortable with uncertainty and adapting to changing requirements.

DSDM is particularly effective in corporate settings, where implementing other agile tools can be challenging.

7) Crystal

Crystal is a group of agile tools with different versions, such as Crystal Clear, Crystal Yellow, Crystal Orange, and Crystal Red. Each version has its framework. Choosing which to use depends on the team size, priorities, and the project’s importance.

The Crystal project management process can be helpful for teams of different sizes. For instance, Crystal Clear is suitable for smaller teams and shorter projects with up to 6 developers, while Crystal Red works better for larger teams with up to 80 members.

Crystal is a good choice for teams that communicate often and work well together without constant supervision from agile team management. However, inexperienced agile teams may find Crystal methodologies challenging, as they have less-defined structures and some areas that require interpretation.

Other Agile Methodologies and Hybrids You Should Know

While the seven methods above are the foundation of Agile development, several other methodologies and hybrid approaches are emerging in modern software teams:

• Agile Software Development (ASD): With its emphasis on adaptability and collaboration, ASD is a reassuring choice for dynamic software environments.
• Scrumban: A unique blend of Scrum and Kanban, it strikes a confident balance between structure and flexibility, perfect for teams transitioning between the two.
• LeanXP: A blend of Lean principles with Extreme Programming practices, popular in high-performance engineering teams.
• OpenAgile: Designed for knowledge based work environments, combining Agile delivery with a strong learning focus.

These variants demonstrate the ever-evolving nature of Agile, providing practical flexibility to adapt to a wide range of team structures and industry-specific needs.

Agile Methodologies At a Glance

Why Companies Are Switching to Agile Methodologies

1) Faster Time-to-Market

Speed wins. Traditional development models can take months or even years to deliver a finished product, by which time market needs have likely changed. Agile framework types ensure that companies deliver working software quickly, gather feedback, and adjust in real time.

Example:

Tech giants like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon use agile software development to continuously update their products based on user behavior and market trends.

2) Increased Productivity and Efficiency

Inefficiencies kill progress. Different agile methodologies eliminate wasted effort by focusing only on high-value work. Teams using agile methodologies list work in smaller, self-managed units. They identify bottlenecks early, optimize workflows, and deliver more value per sprint.

Example:

Tesla’s rapid production cycles mirror Agile’s fast, iterative approach, ensuring faster innovation and delivery than traditional automakers.

3) Stronger Collaboration and Alignment

Silos destroy progress. Agile framework types encourage cross-functional teams where developers, designers, and business leaders work together seamlessly. What are the different types of agile methodologies for teams? They foster better communication, faster decision-making, and fewer misaligned goals.

Example:

Spotify’s agile methodology model enables small, autonomous teams (“squads”) to drive product innovation more quickly, without the need for hierarchical bottlenecks.

4) Customer-Centric Innovation

Building products without honest customer feedback leads to failure. Types of agile software methodology keep users at the center. Agile methodologies promote continuous feedback loops, ensuring companies deliver products users want, not what was planned months ago.

Example:

Netflix’s recommendation engine continuously evolves using agile-driven feedback and AI, maintaining peak user engagement levels.

5) Resilience in a Changing Market

Industries change fast, and companies that can’t pivot quickly get left behind. Different types of Agile frameworks enable enterprises to adapt to disruptions, regulatory changes, and shifting consumer trends. Types of agile development allow companies to re-strategize without derailing entire projects.

Example:

During the pandemic, retailers such as Walmart and Target rapidly adapted their e-commerce and supply chain systems using agile methodologies to meet the soaring online demand.

Choosing the Right Agile Methodology: A Quick Comparison Guide

Use this quick reference to identify the Agile Methodology best suited for your team:

Conclusion

Picking a suitable agile methodology requires flexibility. Consider each option’s pros and cons to choose the best one for your business. Look for a framework that helps you create great digital experiences in a competitive market. Remember, the proper agile framework attracts talented people to join your team.

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