Agile software development is entering the mainstream with large firms such as broadcasting group BSkyB and book publisher Scholastic UK using it to deliver software in shorter timescales.

Proponents of the methodology say it brings products to market in one to six weeks via the constant interaction of developers and their “customers”, such as managers within user departments.

Critics of the delivery model say it lacks detailed documentation during the development process and suffers ever-changing business requirements.

Challenges may also include complexity in dealing with cultural change in the migration from other methods. And added costs can be accrued because software often does not go live with its full functionality, meaning that projects are extended.

But keen supporters of the method claim that speedy software engineering leads to more productivity, added business value and higher staff retention rates, with employees more empowered because of the highly interactive processes.

“I have not met a single developer who has ever wanted to go back to traditional delivery methods after using agile,” said BT’s agile advocate Roger Leaton.

BT has used the methodology for some time, with some 30 per cent of its IT projects now using the techniques. Click here to read more.

And charity Amnesty International has been using the model for around 18 months and has seen a noticeable improvement in productivity. Read the full case study here.