César over at non linear enterprise is spot on about feedback loops.

That is what so-called reenforcing practices are about. Pairing introduces a very fast feedback loop on code writing. Automated regression tests provide a fast feedback loop on development. Retrospectives are a quick feedback loop on the project.

All this would tend to indicate that Agile is actually a more tightly controlled process than many other development practices. Even more interesting the control is exercised at the time and on the rythm that is most appropriate to the controlled process. Finally most of this control happens without external intervention (which will insecure many managers) which removes the controller single point of failure. It also makes it possible for the process to adapt and self repair.

But beware that feedback loops can also be a factor of instability…

This entry was posted on Wednesday, June 11th, 2008 at 3:25 am and is filed under Agile. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.