HKSM

A way of working that combines iterative cycles with incremental delivery so teams continually refine work items and release usable value on a frequent cadence.

Key Points

• Blends iteration (learning and adjusting each cycle) with incremental delivery (small, usable releases).
• Backlog items are refined continuously based on feedback and changing priorities.
• Timeboxed cycles aim to produce a potentially releasable increment each iteration.
• Optimizes for early value, adaptability, and transparency through frequent stakeholder engagement.

Example

A product team building a mobile app works in two-week iterations. In Iteration 1 they deliver a basic login and profile, then gather user feedback. In Iteration 2 they add notifications and improve performance. Every review, the backlog is re-ordered to focus on the most valuable features, and a small, working increment is released each cycle.

PMP Example Question

A sponsor wants working features every two weeks while accepting that requirements will evolve as users provide feedback. Which life cycle best fits this need?

1. Predictive life cycle with fixed scope and sequential phases
2. Iterative only, using prototypes but delivering the full product at the end
3. Incremental only, building components once without repeating cycles
4. Agile life cycle that is both iterative and incremental, enabling frequent delivery

Correct Answer: D — Agile life cycle

Explanation: The agile life cycle combines iterative refinement with incremental releases, allowing frequent delivery and adaptation to evolving requirements.