XP vs Scrum: A Deep Dive into Agile Methods

Overview of Agile

Agile is a widely accepted and suited approach to project management. Focussed on flexibility and collaboration, it is based on the concept of increment and iteration in the project. It works by segregating the project into different phases and aims at continuous improvement. The agile methodology ensures collaboration among cross-functional teams. 

Agile is implemented through frameworks that state the specific approach to planning, managing and executing the work. The frameworks are separately designed at the team level and organizational level. While the agile frameworks for implementation at scale, i.e., for organizations, include Disciplined Agile (DA), Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), Large Scale Scrum (LeSS) and others, the team-level frameworks are Scrum, XP, Kanban, Scrumban and others. Here, we will focus on two, i.e., extreme programming vs Scrum (XP vs Scrum). 

What is Scrum? 

Scrum, the most renowned Agile framework in software development, is a practical solution for tackling complex problems without compromising on product quality. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a confident choice for meeting dynamic customer needs. 

How Scrum Works? 

Scrum conducts events and offers specific roles and artifacts for teams to carry out transparent and collaborative work. Time-boxed iterations like sprints are a standard method of following a scrum. For each sprint, the scrum roles, artifacts and events come together to complete the Scrum. To understand XP vs Scrum, you must know what each is. 

Scrum artifacts are tools for solving project problems. They help with planning. Scrum artifacts include the product backlog, spirit backlog and increment. The product backlog focuses on product improvement, and the sprint backlog provides the tasks to be completed. A strategy is devised to complete the tasks remaining in the previous cycle or sprint. The increment states the ultimate goal, which is the usable end product that the team will work on. 

Scrum roles are designed to foster collaboration. The product owner, scrum leader, and scrum development team work together, each with their unique responsibilities, to ensure the project's success. This inclusive approach encourages every team member to contribute to the task at hand. 

The scrum events include sprint planning, sprint, daily Scrum, sprint review and sprint retrospective, where regular insights and details are interchanged for scrum implementation.  

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Scrum Applications

The application of Scrum is best suited: 

• During times of uncertainty
• In the presence of complex needs 
• When the projects are of longer durations 
• During this time, client involvement is in every aspect of the project life cycle

Benefits of Scrum

The incorporation of Scrum offers multiple benefits to both teams and companies. These are: 

• It provides the opportunity to set goals and complete them with planning 
• It offers flexibility through iterations as it aids in meeting dynamic customer demands 
• Helps in adapting to different situations 
• Contributes to fast deliveries in the market with high-quality products 
• Delivers high-quality work due to transparency 
• Develops personal responsibility among team members 
• Encourages feedback and improvements for every Scrum 
• Offers the base for effective communication and collaboration 
• Minimizes the possibilities of risk through cross-functional team participation 
• Implemented at low cost and promises high return on investment 
• Offers increased customer satisfaction

Overview of Extreme Programming (XP)

It is also a team-level agile framework used in software development. Offering flexibility like Scrum, XP is based on communication, simplicity, respect and consistent feedback. It focuses on the needs of customers and teams and the software development process. Extreme programming comprises shorter cycle periods and less documentation. 

How Does Extreme Programming (XP) Work? 

Let's explore more about Extreme Programming before diving into the concept of Extreme Programming vs. Scrum (XP vs Scrum). Extreme Programming works like Scrum. It includes sprints and follows iteration to complete and improve tasks. It begins with data collection, which consists of user stories. Then, the tasks are prioritized, followed by planning for their improvement. The plans are communicated through meetings or events. Strategies and plans are implemented, and the work is launched for feedback and further improvement. Customer or client participation is active in each phase during extreme programming implementation. 

Extreme Programming (XP) Applications

The Extreme Programming is a critical framework that finds applications:

• During the time of dynamic software requirements 
• When the used technology includes automated unit and functional tests 
• In small and cross-functional teams sharing the exact geographic location
• Presence of risks in the usage of new technology for fixed-time projects 
• If constant customer contact is available
• In the presence of an adaptable team open to changes 
• If the team has a solid technical understanding  

Benefits of Extreme Programming 

Extreme programming also holds certain benefits, such as: 

• Helps in product enhancement with a constant focus on continuous integration 
• Encourages communication among teams and their members 
• Offers flexible approach for change incorporation based on needs 
• Seeks regular feedback for timely improvement 
• Focuses on time management to deliver quality results 
• Saves costs by avoiding major updates and through constant and rapid changes through feedback 
• Offers easy-to-maintain and improved software due to YADNI and DRY rules 
• Focuses on teams' activity, keeping it in check with 40 hours a week 

Difference Between Extreme Programming vs Scrum 

There are certain differences between extreme programming and scrum or to say XP vs Scrum. They are: 

Factors	Scrum	Extreme Programming (XP)
Focus	Productivity and management	Software quality and engineering techniques
Sprint	2 to 4 weeks	1 to 2 weeks
Adaptation	The framework needs to be modified as per the use	The framework is open to application with Ready-to-apply features
Flexibility	Does not allow changes to modify the sprint’s target	Open to changes based on customer requirements
Team hierarchy	Three roles: Product Owner, Scrum Master and Development Team	Shared ownership with no hierarchy
Feature Selection	Not dependent on priority and demand	Demanded feature is the priority
Daily meetings	Important and essential to follow	Optional
Timeboxing	Used to set sprint lengths and other events	Used to deliver results
Values	Openness, commitment and focus	Communication, simplicity and feedback
Task prioritization	It is done in collaboration with product owner and team	Done by developers on a strict basis

Key Similarities Between XP vs Scrum

After getting an idea about the differences between Extreme Programming and Scrum (XP vs Scrum), let's also explore the similarities between scrum and (XP) extreme programming are:

• They are both agile frameworks
• They focus on high-quality product delivery with minimal time
• They emphasize iterative development and meetings 
• They are in alignment with transparency and feedback 
• Both ensure simplicity in incorporation 
• They encourage communication and collaboration

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Limitations of XP vs Scrum 

There are limitations in XP and Scrum. Scrum includes limitations such as: 

• Leads to significant organizational changes 
• It is challenging to integrate with the classical project management approach 
• Requires training for implementation 
• Lacks detailed information on the project's time, scope and budget 
• Not suited for large and complex projects 

Some of the limitations posed by Extreme Programming (XP) include: 

• One of the critical characteristics of extreme programming is the requirement of creativity, persistence and lean thinking 
• Groups or businesses with lower budgets can not implement the framework 
• Requires mandatory participation of customer 
• It is location-restricted 
• Lacks scalability 
• This leads to pressure due to tight deadlines

XP vs Scrum: Use Cases 

When understanding extreme programming vs.Scrum, discussing their use cases is essential. Scrum finds applications in different fields, such as the IT sector, education, finance, event planning and social media management. For instance, the Bundesbank's use case can be seen in loan processing. Where a standard procedure may take weeks or months to complete, scrum team-based processing is quick. It can even enhance the number of processed applications with reliability, leading to customer satisfaction and increased profit. 

Similarly, extreme programming can be used to develop a new game. Here, the normal process will include a specific frequency of customer meetings, which may lead to discrepancies in expectations and deliveries. The XP is an entirely customer-centric approach involving their participation in multiple aspects. Constant meetings will include designing and testing the product simultaneously, leading to timely and quality delivery. It will also help adhere to high-quality delivery requirements. 

XP and Scrum: Ethical Considerations 

• The ethical considerations stated in extreme programming (XP) and Scrum aScrumTaking full responsibility for the professional work, actions and duties 
• Being transparent about potential negative points or losses 
• Ensure respect for each member and their ideas 
• Taking accountability for carelessness and in case of faults and omissions 
• Offer and take feedback constructively 
• Avoiding harm or threat to other's safety 
• Avoid unnecessary complexity 

Conclusion

Scrum and Extreme Programming are effective and commonly used Agile frameworks in numerous sectors. Focused on enhancing quality as fast as possible, Scrum is focused on project management, while extreme programming focuses on technical aspects. There are also many other differences between the two. 

Regardless, the relevance of the two mentioned agile frameworks and others like Kanban, Scrumban, and many more is non-negotiable. Candidates seeking a career in project management must be equipped with these frameworks and associated intricacies to excel in the job. With top companies accepting these frameworks, there lies loads of scope and opportunities. Enroll in our Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) Certification Training to begin your journey today. You can elevate your career as a sought-after Certified Scrum Master through immersive training by globally renowned CSTs. You will also learn about Scrum's secrets, enhance teamwork, transparency, and results with CSM certification. You will get access to expert coaching, ace the CSM exam, and propel your career to new heights—unlock higher salaries and discover exciting opportunities!

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FAQs

Q1. Can XP and Scrum be used together?

Yes, they can be used together. Scrum can handle project management, while Extreme Programming can handle technical practices. 

Q2. Is XP suitable for all types of projects?

No, implementing XP requires the presence of specific properties, the important ones being technical aspects and customer involvement. 

Q3. How does Scrum handle project changes?

Scrum projects handle changes by continuous inspection and work adaptation. The scrum framework includes short iterative development cycles through sprints that offer room for regular customer feedback. These enable the team to incorporate changes in the project. 

Q4. Can XP be used outside of software development?

The extreme programming is specific for software development and hence is impossible to use in other cases. 

Q5. How does XP ensure quality?

Extreme programming uses pair programming for writing and testing the code to avoid room for error. Further, it considers regular feedback to determine any compromise in quality.