ESSENCE Kernel in Overcoming Challenges of Agile Software Development

In this paper, we discuss the benefits and challenges of agile programming when used in large-scale software development. We enumerate the myths and ground realities of prevalent agile practice. Agile programming has promises and potentials with small delivery cycles. But at the same time, in practice, individual excellence or infrastructural building blocks as essential components are often prioritized less. Thus, the entire quality may suffer with staggered timelines and compromises. In this context, ESSENCE, a SEMAT kernel is proposed to be used in conjunction with suitably adapted and customized Agile process in order to help mitigating the risks and challenges. We propose to use ESSENCE Alpha cards and competency for health-check of process, tools, procedures and resources in a timely manner. OMG has adopted SEMAT and its kernel, ESSENCE, as an official OMG standard. Essential ESSENCE use with agile practice is a definite way forward for timely saving of catastrophes.