| Software development process |
| Activities and steps |
| Requirements | Architecture | Design | Implementation | Testing | Deployment |
| Models |
| Agile | Cleanroom | Iterative | RAD | RUP | Spiral | Waterfall | XP | Scrum |
| Supporting disciplines |
| Configuration management | Documentation | Software quality assurance (SQA) | Project management | User experience design |
Crystal Clear is a member of the Crystal family of methodologies as described by Alistair Cockburn and is considered an example of an agile or lightweight methodology. Crystal Clear can be applied to teams of up to 6 or 8 colocated developers working on systems that are not life-critical. The Crystal family of methodologies focus on efficiency and habitablity as components of project safety. Crystal Clear focuses on people, not processes or artifacts. Crystal Clear contains the following properties (the first three are required):
- Frequent Delivery of Usable Code to Users (required)
- Reflective Improvement (required)
- Osmotic Communication Preferably by Being Co-Located (required)
- Personal Safety
- Focus
- Easy Access to Expert Users
- Automated Tests, Configuration Management, and Frequent Integration
References
- Crystal Clear, A Human-Powered Methodology for Small Teams, Alistair Cockburn, October 2004, pages 336, paperback, Addison-Wesley Professional, ISBN 0-201-69947-8.
- Alistair Cockburn's background to the Crystal family of methodologies
- A quick overview with links to sample chapters from the book
