Summary

Rapid development techniques are of interest to everyone in the software and IT industries because of the rush-to-market pressure and because of the changing nature of technology. However, too many organizations expect to find the silver bullet that will cure all their development ills. Unfortunately, there are no silver bullets, but there are many ways to improve the development schedule.

The most effective and efficient way to improve development schedules is to apply a strategy that:

• Avoids classic mistakes.

• Applies developmental strategies.

• Manages risks to avoid catastrophic setbacks.

• Applies schedule-oriented practices.

There are several techniques known as light methodologies that have been developed during the last five to six years that significantly improve the development process. But they are more effective when used in conjunction with fundamental improvement of the organization's processes.