Lean Software Development (LSD)
Lean Software Development applies lean manufacturing ideas to software work, using a focused set of principles and practices to boost quality, speed up delivery, and align outcomes with customer needs.
Key Points
- Adapts lean manufacturing principles to software to maximize value and reduce waste.
- Promotes small batches, limited WIP, and continuous flow to deliver quickly.
- Builds quality in via automated tests, continuous integration, and ongoing learning.
- Optimizes the whole system and centers decisions on customer value.
Example
A project team adopts LSD by mapping the value stream, implementing a Kanban board with WIP limits, automating tests and CI, and releasing small increments every week. They review usage data and customer feedback each iteration to decide what to build next and remove low-value work.
PMP Example Question
Which action best reflects Lean Software Development on a software project?
- Increase upfront documentation and add more stage-gate reviews.
- Limit WIP, deliver in small increments, and gather rapid customer feedback.
- Assign developers to multiple projects to maximize utilization.
- Freeze requirements early to prevent scope changes.
Correct Answer: B — Limit WIP, deliver small batches, and get fast feedback
Explanation: LSD emphasizes flow, small batches, waste reduction, and quick feedback to improve speed, quality, and customer alignment.
HKSM