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What is DSDM?

DSDM is an Agile method that focuses on the full project lifecycle.

 

What is DSDM?

DSDM is an Agile method that focuses on the full project lifecycle, DSDM (formally known as Dynamic System Development Method) was created in 1994, after project managers using RAD (Rapid Application Development) sought more governance and discipline to this new iterative way of working.

DSDM’s success is due to the philosophy “that any project must be aligned to clearly defined strategic goals and focus upon early delivery of real benefits to the business.” Supporting this philosophy with the eight principles allows teams to maintain focus and achieve project goals

 

The Eight Principles

The Eight Principles of DSDM:

  1. Focus on the business need
  2. Deliver on time
  3. Collaborate
  4. Never compromise quality
  5. Build incrementally from firm foundations
  6. Develop iteratively
  7. Communicate continuously and clearly
  8. Demonstrate control

 

 

DSDM is vendor-independent, covers the entire lifecycle of a project and provides best practice guidance for on-time, in-budget delivery of projects, with proven scalability to address projects of all sizes and for any business sector.

DSDM advocates the use of several proven practices, including:

  • Facilitated Workshops
  • Modelling and Iterative Development
  • MoSCoW Prioritisation
  • Time boxing

 

Next steps 

DSDM is designed to be easily tailored and used in conjunction with traditional methods such as PRINCE2® or to complement other Agile approaches such as Scrum.

DSDM is the backbone to AgilePM® (APMG accredited Agile Project Management) exam. This is the world’s leading Agile Project management method and continues to grow in popularity year on year.

Learn more about Agile Business Products Learn free with our Bitesize Guides DSDM Project Framework