Agile Practices are specific solutions assembled into a framework supported by available training and coaching.
Once individuals began to adopt an Agile Mindset, they started developing practices to support it. These practices have been bundled into different sets of "frameworks".
There are many different frameworks that have been developed. One of the most common frameworks is called Scrum. In this framework, Learning Cycles are called sprints, the team solving the problem is called a “scrum”, and the team leader is called a “scrum master”. Sprints are generally 1-2 weeks long and they build toward a solution called an "epic".
Design Thinking is another framework that utilizes learning cycles for more effective product design.
But note that, in Agile, there is no single framework or set of practices that are universal - they often are adjusted by the nature of the team, its challenges, and the organization.
Agile can thus feel messy and difficult to explain. For this reason, it is critical to first understand the experience and the mindset.
For agile practices to be effective, four critical elements must be present: - **Purpose** that is clear and meaningful - **Trust** that creates the safety for team members to risk failure - **Experimentation** that is always supported - **Commitment** to deliver new value quickly