Agile Database Techniques: Effective Strategies for the Agile Software Developer

Chapter 1. The Agile Data Method

It is possible to take an agile approach to data-oriented development. The first step is to choose to work this way.

Data is clearly an important aspect of software-based systems — something we've all known for decades — and yet many organizations still struggle with their approach to data-oriented issues within their software processes.

The goal of the agile data (AD) method is to define strategies that enable IT professionals to work together effectively on the data aspects of software systems. This isn't to say that AD is a "one size fits all" methodology. Instead, consider AD as a collection of philosophies that will enable software developers within your organization to work together effectively when it comes to the data aspects of software-based systems. Although the focus of this book is proven techniques for agile software development, it's critical to define an underlying methodological foundation.

In this chapter, I help you understand the AD method by exploring the following topics:

• Why working together is currently difficult

• The agile movement

• The philosophies of agile data

• Agile data in a nutshell

• Does agile data address our problems?

Why Working Together Is Currently Hard

In many organizations, the relationship between data professionals and developers is often less than ideal. Yes, there are some organizations where these two communities work together quite well, but there are always tensions — some healthy tension exists between groups, and ...