Agile is a set of disruptive practices (technologies). The term "Disruptive technologies" was introduced by Clayton Christensen in "The Innovator's Dilemma".
Agile practices have a different value chain to traditional "Waterfall / Up frontist" methodologies. The consultancies that sell services to support the "Waterfall" methodologies are unlikely to be able to make a profit from Agile Practices. "Waterfall" consultancies rely on intelligent graduates at the bottom of the pyramid to turn the handle on their methodologies. Agile practices require that the bottom of the pyramid is staffed by highly motivated and experienced developers. Traditional consultancies will find it difficult to convert their business models. David Maister's "Managing the Professional Service Firm" explains how consultancy practices make profits for the senior partners.
Posted by chrismatts at June 7, 2003 3:52 PM