As a computer scientist, there are various tools I use in order to do my job. Some are more obvious than others. Of course, I need a computer and an IDE to program, but I also need a game plan. This is where Agile comes in. Agile is a software development method that is based on increments of progress supported by adaptations during each cycle. Prior to taking my CS100w Technical Writing course at San Jose State University, I did not know about Agile. I am thankful to have discovered and used this tool throughout the semester while working on a project for my client. Agile is a great tool to use because of its flexibility. For each sprint, the team allots a few goals that have been discussed with the client. By doing this, the client is sure to have received what is desired and expectations are continually met. If by chance there are changes that the client wants to make, then those changes can be added to the next sprint cycle.
Aside from Agile, some of my favorite tools include Xcode and Adobe Photoshop. Xcode is a great IDE for developing on Apple computers, specifically for iOS apps. The interface is great and easy to use. Adobe Photoshop is another awesome tool because it is simple, yet powerful. On the other hand, I do not like TextWrangler. I used this tool for a few weeks to develop some HTML, but found it to be rather outdated. I now use Komodo Edit, which acts more like your typical IDE. It can complete brackets and indent correctly.
All tools are continually changing, some getting better than others. It is important to have updated tools because of software upgrades. There are tons of compatibility requirements necessary to run programs. For example, YouTube will sometimes not run if the latest Adobe Flash Player is not installed.
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| Poster for my project that used Agile Product Development |
Agile methodologies are a strong tool for companies to have. Although I can see why some large tech corporations will not adopt this form of product development because administrators want things done in a specific way, Agile is flexible and utilizes the strengths from all team members. Where there any components of Agile methodologies that you did not enjoy? What other forms of product development have you used? Overall, this post is well thought out because it pertains to CS100W at SJSU.
ReplyDeleteHi Alexa,
ReplyDeleteFrom your post, I have learned about Agile product development, and how it is useful to computer scientists. Agile allows a team to make specific goals for a period of time, which allows them to estimate when their product will be done in a fair and efficient way. I also agree that Photoshop is a great tool for students to use for projects.
Some things I feel that you could elaborate on are some examples of when you used the tools that you liked. I also think you could talk about some of the real-life downsides you have experienced with Agile.