3 reasons to utilize agile app development approaches

The art of creating software for the enterprise has significantly shifted over the years, involving numerous considerations that were not previously a part of the equation. While the main argument may stem from native versus HTML5 development approaches, there are some that still have not taken on the agile method of making applications. To ignore such an important consideration could be costly to business continuity. Here are a few reasons why organizations must use agile development methods over other legacy approaches:

Puts more focus on the user
Unlike waterfall methods that have to complete one phase in order to move onto the next, agile allows developers to easily interact with the end user throughout the process. The waterfall approach had users provide feedback only after the app was mostly complete, however, agile includes these individuals from start to finish. This involvement makes it significantly easier to ensure that employees are getting the features they need and can work effectively with them. Following this pattern reduces the likelihood of an abandoned or useless application.

Allows better testing and problem mitigation
Legacy waterfall approaches often put off testing until the last minute, right before the software's release, giving programmers limited time to patch vulnerabilities. This often means that finished products are released with bugs and other issues that require extensive patches in order to fix. A release with numerous problems may lead users to pursue other options and put aside the enterprise app for good. However, agile development involves testing throughout the program's lifecycle, ensuring that any hazards are found and rooted out early on. This type of proactive approach will put more faith in a business's products and prevent shadow IT practices.

Enables businesses to keep pace with competition, trends
In waterfall development, if any new technology emerges while the app is being created, the entire process must restart if programmers wish to leverage the new trend. This not only wastes time, but can significantly put businesses behind their competitors that are quicker in reacting. Agile methods can give organizations this type of responsiveness by enabling developers to make any changes throughout the process. Companies will save significant costs with this approach and be able to reap the same benefits of others who are utilizing the new technology.

As app building continues to evolve, it will be important to make the best program possible. For this reason, decision-makers must incorporate an agile mindset to their approach to ensure that they innovate their own development processes.