Feature Driven Development (FDD)

The Manifesto of Feature Driven Development (FDD)

The FDD manifesto outlines five basic activities that are integral to this methodology: Develop an overall model, build a features list, plan by feature, design by feature, and build by feature. These activities form the backbone of the FDD process and are designed to deliver tangible, client-valued features in a systematic and efficient manner.

The Guiding Principles of Feature Driven Development (FDD)

FDD is guided by a few key principles. The foremost is that it aims to deliver tangible, client-valued functionality in the form of features. It follows a model-driven approach, which provides a clear and shared understanding of the system being developed. Other principles include ownership and accountability for each feature and progress tracking based on feature completion.

Implementing FDD in your project management strategy involves a systematic process. First, you need to develop an overall model that serves as a blueprint for the entire project. Next, a feature list is created that outlines all the features that need to be developed. The project is then planned, designed, and built feature by feature.

Implementing FDD brings numerous advantages. It allows for efficient resource allocation, better predictability, reduced complexity, and enhanced visibility of project progress. It also promotes clear communication and accountability, resulting in improved project outcomes.

Case Studies: FDD in Action

FDD has been successfully implemented in various industries, from IT to manufacturing. For instance, in an IT project at a major bank, FDD enabled the project team to deliver high-quality software within a tight timeframe, despite numerous complexities.

The Versatility of Feature Driven Development (FDD)

FDD's versatility lies in its ability to cater to different project sizes and types across various industries. Its systematic and feature-centric approach can be adapted to suit the specific needs and context of a project, making it a preferred choice for many project managers.

FDD vs. Waterfall

FDD vs. PRINCE2

While FDD, Waterfall, and PRINCE2 all have their strengths, FDD stands out for its feature-centric approach and adaptability to different project sizes and contexts. Unlike the Waterfall model, FDD allows for flexibility and iterative development, making it more suitable for today's dynamic project environments. Compared to PRINCE2, FDD places a greater emphasis on delivering client-valued features, promoting efficiency and productivity.

As project environments continue to evolve, FDD is likely to see further enhancements and adaptations. Future trends may include the integration of FDD with emerging technologies like AI and blockchain, as well as its adaptation to remote work scenarios.

With its focus on delivering tangible, client-valued features, FDD is a powerful project management methodology that can help organizations achieve their project goals efficiently and effectively. As project environments continue to evolve, FDD is likely to remain a key player in the project management landscape.

When implementing FDD, it's essential to follow some key do's and don'ts:

By adhering to these guidelines, project managers can effectively leverage FDD to achieve their project goals.