Agile Unified Process

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Agile Unified Process (AUP) is a simplified version of the Rational Unified Process (RUP) developed by Scott Ambler.[1] It describes a simple, easy to understand approach to developing business application software using agile techniques and concepts yet still remaining true to the RUP. The AUP applies agile techniques including test-driven development (TDD), agile modeling (AM), agile change management, and database refactoring to improve productivity.

In 2011 the AUP accounted for one percent of all the agile methodologies used.[2] In 2012 the AUP was superseded by disciplined agile delivery (DAD). Since then work has ceased on evolving AUP.


Unlike the RUP, the AUP has only seven disciplines[citation needed]:

  1. Model. Understand the business of the organization, the problem domain being addressed by the project, and identify a viable solution to address the problem domain.
  2. Implementation. Transform model(s) into executable code and perform a basic level of testing, in particular unit testing.
  3. Test. Perform an objective evaluation to ensure quality. This includes finding defects, validating that the system works as designed, and verifying that the requirements are met.
  4. Deployment. Plan for the delivery of the system and to execute the plan to make the system available to end users.
  5. Configuration Management. Manage access to project artifacts. This includes not only tracking artifact versions over time but also controlling and managing changes to them.
  6. Project Management. Direct the activities that take place within the project. This includes managing risks, directing people (assigning tasks, tracking progress, etc.), and coordinating with people and systems outside the scope of the project to be sure that it is delivered on time and within budget.
  7. Environment. Support the rest of the effort by ensuring that the proper process, guidance (standards and guidelines), and tools (hardware, software, etc.) are available for the team as needed.


The Agile UP is based on the following philosophies (Ambler, Scott. "The Agile Unified Process (AUP)". Ambysoft. Retrieved 21 December 2015. )

  1. Your staff know what they're doing. People are not going to read detailed process documentation, but they will want some high-level guidance and/or training from time to time. The AUP product provides links to many of the details, if you are interested, but doesn't force them upon you.


The Agile Unified Process distinguishes between two types of iterations. A development release iteration results in a deployment to the quality-assurance and/or demo area. A production release iteration results in a deployment to the production area. This is a significant refinement to the Rational Unified Process.


See also[edit]


  1. ^ Waters, John K (28 February 2008). "Agile lands role in games and business software". The Register. Retrieved 2009-08-03. 
  2. ^ State of Agile Development Survey Results, 2011. VersionOne

External links[edit]