The use of Agile in Iceland

Abstract

Here, we examine the use of Agile methods in innovative software firms. The objective of the study was to examine the methodology based on employees‘ perspective, and it is based on a qualitative research design. Data was collected in interviews with 25 employees of 10 companies. In order to get a good overview of how the methodology is applied in the Icelandic context, we emphasized including a substantial range in terms of employee numbers and stage of company development. The results showed that none of the interviewees believed that their team worked according to a predefined Agile method, but said that they relied on their own adaptation of the methodology. In practice, however, the methods used had many similarities with Scrum and Kanban. The results also illuminated the human element in applying Agile, and implied that the main benefits were improved communication inside the team and with customers, and increased flexibility. Some challenges also emerged, related to uncertainty and rapid changes. Agile methods supported flexibility and quality in innovation and new solution development, but the challenges can nevertheless lead to increased mental burden on employees, even though Agile methods work well to limit the impact of these challenges on the deliverables themselves. The results illuminate the use of Agile methods in the context of Icelandic innovative software development and could be useful in organizing training and information intended to reduce the negative impact of the challenges on employees.