Rugby: an agile process model based on continuous delivery

In this paper we introduce Rugby, an agile process model that includes workflows for the continuous delivery of software. It allows part-timers to work in a project-based organization with multiple projects for the rapid delivery of prototypes and products. We show how continuous delivery improves the development process in two ways: First, Rugby improves the interaction between developers and customers with a continuous feedback mechanism. Second, Rugby improves the coordination and communication with stakeholders and across multiple teams in project-based organizations with event based releases. We have evaluated Rugby in two large university software engineering capstone courses with up to 100 participants working in 10 simultaneous projects with industry partners in 2012 and 2013. We describe the metrics used in the evaluation. First results indicate that Rugby increases the frequency and quality of the interaction between developers and customers leading to improved results in the delivered products.