Agile methodologies often do not explicitly include the process of creating user documentation, consistent with the idea that documentation should be minimal to create efficient processes. While Agile provides several advantages for technical communicators, these processes also raise challenges that technical communicators creating user documentation need to address, including collaborating with development teams and evaluating the usability of user documentation. Building on existing research, this qualitative study aimed to understand both the advantages and challenges of Agile and illuminate how technical communicators and their colleagues address the challenges. We interviewed 14 practicing technical communicators and their colleagues over 3 months in the fall of 2022. Participants worked in six software development organizations across the United States, with one working in Europe. We analyzed results qualitatively to discern findings focused on three topics—general advantages and challenges of creating user documentation in Agile contexts, the dynamics of technical communicators interacting with Agile development teams, and the effects of Agile on assessing the usability of user documentation. We offer suggestions for practitioners and educators as they consider how Agile affects the creation of user documentation, leveraging the benefits of Agile, and addressing challenges in innovative ways as demonstrated by participants in this study. Future research will provide even richer perspectives.

Background: The movement in recent decades from the waterfall model to the Agile framework, especially in software development, has transformed the nature of technical communication throughout product development processes. Literature review: Although several researchers have studied the roles of effective technical communication in Agile environments, more insights are needed, especially in how teams adapt Agile communication principles to fit their circumstances. Research questions: 1. How do people communicate effectively throughout phases of the Agile development process? 2. How do participants adapt typical Agile/Scrum communication practices to address challenges and fit their circumstances? Methodology: In this qualitative observational study, we interviewed and observed professionals to explore technical communication practices throughout phases of the Agile development process and to explore how teams used and modified common Agile/Scrum practices in given contexts. Results: We investigate the nature of effective technical communication throughout the typical phases of the Agile process and note a variety of ways in which participants modified conventional practices to fit their situations. Conclusion: Participants highlighted the indispensability of effective technical communication in Agile processes and developed innovative ways to adapt communication practices based on their unique experiences and situations throughout the development process. The findings illuminate useful practices and offer implications that will benefit organizations, practicing professionals, students, and educators.