In 30 seconds
- Disciplined Agile helps teams choose practices, not follow one recipe.
- Its motto: choose your way of working (WoW).
- Now owned and maintained by PMI.
The idea
Scott Ambler and Mark Lines created Disciplined Agile (originally Disciplined Agile Delivery) around 2012. Instead of prescribing one framework, it offers decision guides that list options for each part of delivery and the trade-offs of each, so teams can assemble a process that fits them.
Lifecycles to choose from
- Agile, Scrum-based project lifecycle
- Lean, Kanban-based lifecycle
- Continuous delivery variants of both
- Exploratory lifecycle for testing new ideas
Ownership
The Project Management Institute (PMI) acquired Disciplined Agile in 2019, and it now offers DA certifications alongside its traditional project management ones.
Myth vs reality
Myth · DA is a heavier Scrum.
Reality · It's a toolkit; you can end up very light.
Myth · You must adopt the whole toolkit.
Reality · You pick only the guidance you need.
Myth · DA competes with Scrum.
Reality · It often includes Scrum as one option.
FAQ
Who is DA for?
Organizations that want options rather than one prescribed framework.
How does DA differ from SAFe?
SAFe prescribes a structure; DA helps you choose one.
Is DA certification common?
Mainly among PMI-certified project professionals.