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The agile methodology has changed software development forever. It provided a whole new pathway of getting things done efficiently and quickly. While it is indeed a mindset and application of various techniques, it does not happen overnight.

To succeed in using this method, it requires training and acquiring new skill sets. Some companies develop their training programs, and some do not. While it is undeniably cheaper, it does not come easy, and there are a lot of questions to answer, including “what is agile training?” Nevertheless, once everything is set up, it benefits not only the company but the employees as well. 

What is Agile Training?

Agile method is a technique employed mostly by software developers to lighten their load while ensuring efficiency while finishing jobs faster. It involves breaking down big tasks into smaller ones and distributing them to teams. Then, these teams would determine goals that are in line with the target.

Usually, these teams go on a cycle where they would submit results every two to four weeks. Experts call it an increment cycle, a small portion of achievement from the big project. On each one, developers can test the effectiveness. From this point, they can determine whether this stage is successful or needs alterations.

How Do You Develop Agile Training Programs?

Now that the question “what is agile training?” is answered, it is essential to lay the ground rules of developing an agile training program. Here are some steps to follow:

1. Determine Your Training Goals

Before starting to plan the training program, determine the end goals you want to achieve when the training ends. It would help everyone in training strive towards a common goal.

2. Identify the Training’s Audience

Even if this training is for the whole company, it is essential to determine who are the principal participants of the current part of the program. Some examples are:

• Training for agile masters
• Training for agile teams
• Training for the end-user

3. Set a Timeline

Setting a timeline for agile training is quite difficult, as a significant number of factors depend on it. First off, determine how urgent the training needs to happen. Next, how many participants there are and what part of the training do they need to focus on. 

Nevertheless, training does not happen overnight, as well as the application. It takes a while, a minimum of two to three days per training.

4. Select a Service Provider

No matter how long you have applied agile training while working, teaching it to others is a different matter. If it is not your forte, it is better to hire others to do it. When looking for trainers, consider the following: 

• Referral – It is always best to hire someone who has been tried and tested. Ask around if there is a trusted trainer in your area who is an expert on the topic.
• References – Before hiring anyone, ask if they can present old presentations, or even recommendations on the topic. Also, if they have referral statements from former clients. 

5. Determine the Scope

The same with the timeline, it is crucial to determine the topics to be discussed in training. It varies depending on the needs of the participants and of the goal of the company.    

6. Set a Budget 

Even if it is DIY agile training, there would always be expenses. So, before you launch a training program, determine whether or not the participants need to pay, or the company will shoulder everything.

Whether it is going to be a DIY project or not, agile training is vital for every company. It would increase efficiency while maintaining or upgrading the quality of products.

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