JIRA Agile, formerly known as GreenHopper, is a JIRA add-on that enables agile capabilities in JIRA. This does not mean you need to choose between JIRA and JIRA Agile. As we will see later in this chapter, JIRA Agile simply takes the data stored in JIRA, transforms and presents it in a way that makes it easier for you to visualize, plan, and manage your issues with agile methodologies such as Scrum. JIRA Agile supports two agile methodologies:
Scrum: This is an agile methodology where the development team works iteratively to complete the project. Each iteration or sprint has a defined timeframe and scope. Scrum is most suitable for software development projects. You can find out more about Scrum at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scrum_(software_development).
Kanban: This is an agile methodology that emphasizes on just-in-time delivery by visualizing the workflow and tasks in progress. Kanban is most suitable for operation teams. You can find out more about Kanban at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kanban.
In short, the following list summarizes what JIRA Agile is and is not:
JIRA Agile is an add-on for JIRA
JIRA Agile is powered by new features and data stored in JIRA
JIRA Agile is not a separate, standalone application
JIRA Agile does not require you to be a seasoned JIRA user to use it
As an end user, you can use JIRA Agile, almost independently, from JIRA if you choose to