‘Agile’ is a commonly used term within the sector, but interpretations of what this actually means differs considerably.
Many individuals within organisations say they run agile projects, but what do they really mean by that? The answer seems to be different, not only from organisation to organisation, but also within charities where there might be different approaches at a project level, or when working with outside agencies and suppliers. At this meeting we discussed, debated and shared experiences of ‘agile’.
Questions we considered for the discussions:
- What does agile mean to you? And why is agile development methodology thought to be a good way to do things?
- How and where do you use an agile approach? When is it appropriate – or not?
- Can you reconcile an agile approach with the organisational need for comprehensive and fully costed requirements up front for e.g. budgeting, forward planning, business case etc.?
- A change late in the process will probably result in delivery taking longer (more sprints) and consequently the price/effort being higher – or less functionality being developed. How do you manage late changes?
- Is true agile development even desirable? Or is it really that people just want to feel more involved?
- How do you manage an agile project when working with an external agency (practicalities/budget/delivery contract etc)?
- Moving on from the agile approach, have you worked in design sprints? What is your take on and experience of this approach?
About Heads of Digital
This networking group is exclusively for heads of digital working in UK charities and not-for-profits with a turnover of more than £5 million.
The format of the evening is a round-table discussion, led by our excellent facilitators, feeding into the group as a whole.
The group meets three times a year to discuss strategic issues facing digital leads at large charities. The group is designed to encourage networking and peer-to-peer support, sharing issues in a ‘safe’ and relaxed environment.
Sponsored by
About Addition by WPN>Chameleon
Addition by WPN>Chameleon sponsors the CharityComms Heads of Digital group. A digital product studio with an emphasis on collaboration, at Addition we believe that by combining our skills, imagination, creativity, knowledge, rigour and commitment with yours, together we can make digital products that drive income, reach audiences, tell stories and change minds. They are products that make a difference.
If you’d like to talk to them about any of their services, please email [email protected], call 020 7332 6360 or visit their website to find out more.