Fowler, M. (2000, December). Put Your Process on a Diet. Software Development Online. Retrieved March 11, 2001, from the World Wide Web: http://www.sdmagazine.com/articles/2000/0012/0012a/0012a.htm.

The author, chief scientist for ThoughtWorks, an Internet systems integrator and consulting company, discussed the emergence of “light” software development methodologies in reaction to cumbersome (i.e. “heavy”) development approaches. The new lightweight methodologies are a compromise between no process and too much process. They attempt to minimize bureaucracy and are less document-oriented and more code-oriented.

Traditional heavyweight methodologies impose detailed and disciplined processes with an emphasis on planning and paperwork. In contrast, their lightweight counterparts attempt to minimize paperwork. However, this reduction is a symptom of more fundamental differences. For example, light methods are adaptive rather than predictive and are people-oriented instead of process-oriented. According to the author, light methods thrive on change and emphasize that software development should be an enjoyable activity.

Throughout the paper, the author effectively presents the pros and cons of the two methodologies and makes a valid attempt to help the reader decide which method is most appropriate to their current development project. In addition, the author emphasizes that there is often no clear answer to the question of which methodology to use. The answer is influenced by factors that include the volatility of project requirements, customer understanding, and the size, motivation, and quality of the development staff.

In summary, Fowler presented an interesting overview of existing “heavy” software methodologies along with their new lightweight counterparts. He goes on to detail critical differences and provides insight into which is most appropriate to the reader’s current software development needs.