Agile's project management in software maintenance [2026]

Current software projects often have one thing in common: rigid processes that could not react to changes. Agile methods offer a more flexible approach that is particularly valuable in saving projects. But agility is not an all-healing agent – it must be applied properly to develop its benefits.

Why Agility helps to save

Rescue ChallengeHow Agility helps

Unclear project statusShort iterations quickly create transparency Lost confidence Regular demos show visible progress Unknown RisksFear Identification by Iterative Approach Motivated teamself-organization and motivation Scope CreepPriorized Backlog keeps the focus

Scrum for [Software Recovery](/performance/software recovery)

Adapted Scrum Framework

We recommend shorter sprints (1 week instead of 2) and a stronger focus on stabilization in the first iterations.

1Sprint Planning 2Daily Standup 3Sprint Review 4Retrospective

Practical tip

In the first sprints of a rescue, the focus on "stabilization" should be not on new features. Define a "Definition of Stable" before moving to the feature development.

Kanban for continuous improvement

Visualization of the workflow

Kanban is particularly suitable for rescue projects where the scope is still unclear. The visualization helps to identify bottlenecks and optimize the working flow.

• WIP-Limits: Limit the parallel work to force focus

• Swimlanes: Disconnect stabilisation of new development

• Metriken: Measure Lead Time and Cycle Time

The most important agile practices for salvation

• Daily Standups: Short daily vote keeps everyone up to date

• Retrospectives: Regular learning from mistakes and successes

• Timeboxing: Fixed time frames prevent endless discussions

• Priorized Backlog: Focus on the most important first

• Continuous integration: Automated builds and tests

"Agility doesn't mean having a plan. It means being able to adapt the plan when reality changes."

Frequent errors in agile rescue

ErrorConsequent solution

"Agile" as an excuse for missing planningChaos instead of flexibilityClear goals and prioritized backlog Too long sprintsSpätes Feedback, hidden problems1-week-sprints in the initial phase No real retrospectivesGleiche errors are repeatedConsensual, constructive reflection Stakeholders do not involveconfidence is not built up Regular Sprint Reviews with Demos

Conclusion: Agility as a tool, not as a dogma

Agile methods are not a self-interest, but tools that significantly increase the chances of success of a software review when used correctly. The key is to understand the principles and to adapt them to the specific situation.

Need support