What is it?

In Software Engineering, Crystal Clear is an Agile method which is adequate for smaller development teams, up to eight people, working together. The method focuses on concise communication of requirements to the team, using Kanban and other visual methods of communication.

The team is composed of a lead designer and other developers. The lead designer takes a role similar of the Scrum Master in Scrum.


Crystal Clear life cycle


Principles of Crystal Clear

The Crystal Clear method presents seven main principles to follow:

  • Frequent delivery

    Delivery of new functionality should happen each two months, at maximum, with intermediary versions.

  • Reflective improvement

    The development team needs to discuss frequently if the project is still achieving success.

  • Osmotic communication

    Communication should be open to all developers to participate if they want.

  • Personal safety

    Team members should communicate their concerns, with no fear of being reprehended.

  • Focus

    Team members should be able to focus on two or three high priority topics without being disturbed with new tasks.

  • Easy access to expert users

    Developers should be able to consult business and users specialists.

  • Technical environment

    The development environment needs to support Automated Testing and Continuous Integration.