I used to work for a software house that used the waterfall model. Despite being a strong proponent of continual customer contact I actually hated doing it because all I seemed to be doing was noting issues and reporting them to project management where they disappeared into a mire of beurocracy. I was very rarely able to give customers good news.
Using an Agile methodology however SEED is able to accomodate change. I actually enjoy talking to customers now because we’re able to have open and constructive discussions. This is good for everyone:
- The customer feels lie they’re being listened to – largely because they are
- I and the team feel better because we’re not in a conflict scenario with the customer
- Ultimately the customer gets a system that more reflects their needs, which benefits their business and ours.