Lead Time
Lead Time is a key performance metric in software development and operations that measures the total elapsed time from when work is requested until it is delivered and available to users. It encompasses all stages including planning, development, testing, deployment, and release. This concept is central to DevOps and Agile methodologies for assessing process efficiency and delivery speed.
Developers should understand and track Lead Time to identify bottlenecks, improve workflow efficiency, and accelerate value delivery to customers. It is particularly crucial in continuous delivery environments, where reducing Lead Time enables faster feedback loops and more responsive software updates. Use cases include optimizing release cycles, measuring team performance, and aligning development with business goals.