Cycle Time
Cycle Time is a key metric in software development and DevOps that measures the total elapsed time from when work begins on a task (e.g., coding starts) until it is completed and delivered to the customer or deployed to production. It tracks the efficiency of the development process by quantifying how long it takes to turn ideas into value. This metric is often used in Agile, Lean, and Continuous Delivery practices to identify bottlenecks and improve workflow.
Developers should learn and use Cycle Time to optimize their team's productivity and reduce delays in delivering features or fixes. It is particularly valuable in Agile and DevOps environments where rapid iteration is critical, as it helps pinpoint inefficiencies in coding, testing, or deployment stages. By monitoring Cycle Time, teams can make data-driven decisions to streamline processes, enhance collaboration, and accelerate time-to-market for software products.