Adaptive Development Approach
Definition
An adaptive approach (agile, iterative, change-driven) is used when requirements are uncertain or expected to evolve. Work is delivered in timeboxed iterations (sprints), with scope reviewed and reprioritized each iteration. Time and budget are typically fixed while scope is variable — the Inverted Triangle concept. Customer collaboration and response to change are prioritized over following a fixed plan.
Related concepts
- Inverted Triangle
- Hybrid Development Approach
- Backlog Management
- Retrospectives
- Predictive Development Approach
Exam angle
- Adaptive ≠ no planning: release planning and sprint planning are still required — adaptive doesn’t mean chaotic or unplanned
- Fixed time/budget, variable scope: in adaptive, when unexpected change occurs, the team adjusts what they deliver, not when or for how much
- Product owner controls scope: the team does not decide backlog priority — that’s the product owner’s responsibility