XP (Extreme Programming)

EXtreme Programming (XP) is a lightweight software development methodology. The fundamental concept of XP is to start simply, divide a project into a series of iterations each ending with a rigorously tested release that works in its limited way, and then fit it into a specific structure designed to simplify and expedite the process of software development rather than an exhaustive structure based on the thorough and time-consuming analysis.

EXtreme Programming is actually a deliberate and disciplined approach created in response to software development in the environment of rapidly changing requirements. High-risk projects and those with vague or dynamical requirements are perfect for XP and they will experience greater success and developer productivity in comparison with other software development methodologies.

EXtreme Programming emphasizes team work and implements a simple, yet effective way to enable groupware style development. The XP team includes not only developers - managers and customers are all part of the XP team working together closely and dedicated to delivering quality software. EXtreme Programming teams use a simple form of planning and tracking to decide what should be done next and predict when the project will be completed. Focused on business value, the team produces the software in a series of small fully-integrated releases that pass all the pre-defined tests. With this foundation, XP team is empowered to confidently respond to changing requirements and technology, even late in the life cycle.

So, if you do not have a firm idea of the new system functionality or the software functionality is expected to change frequently, this is when XP will succeed and rapidly produce extremely reliable, efficient, well-factored software.

For more details, please refer to: XProgramming website