The Benefits of Agile,
the Needs of HW Development

The evolution of the mahd framework

Using Agile to Evolve Agile for HW Methods

Since its official launch in 2017 with version 1.0, , the Modified Agile for Hardware Development (MAHD) Framework has empowered countless teams to expedite product development, prioritize customer value, and achieve superior outcomes. Since then, the MAHD Team has worked with a wide range of companies in numerous indsusties to keep improving in key areas: 

  • Applying agile methods beyond project management to provide benefits through the product lifecycle from concept to sustaining engineering 
  • Refinement of roles and integration of existing processes to make Agile transformation easier and less disruptive
  • Enhance learning and support tools to make it easier to learn and faster to implement
In short, we continue to use Agile principles to keep improving on Agile for Hardware methods and the MAHD Framwork. 

Contribute to
MAHD 4.0!

Whether you’ve been a long-term user of the  MAHD Framework or just getting started, we’d love to hear from you! Contact us with: 

  1. Ideas for how to make the framework easier, more intuitive, or 
  2. Any valuable tools or modifications that you’ve found valuable to integrate
  3. General problems or situations that you with the framework covered in more detail or a better way
  4. General interest in getting involved to help guide the future of the MAHD Framework!

Our MAHD Journey

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The Origins of MAHD

As early as 2011, MAHD Framework founders saw the potential of agile over traditional NPD practics and began attempts to apply the tactics to hardware-based project. This phase represents the earliest iteration of the MAHD Framework which focused on laying the groundwork and testing the initial concepts and ideas. 

At this stage, the framework was in its formative stages, using iterative cycles to test the feasibility of applying Agile methods to hardware development. The team collaborated closely with early adopters to identify areas of improvement and validate the core elements of the framework. This phase was essential for establishing the foundation upon which the subsequent versions of MAHD would be built, leading to more refined tools and methods.

Key Contributing Companies

MAHD 1.0 - 1st Official Release

The first official release of the MAHD Framework (1.0) was focused on adapting Agile methods to core methods for Agile project management of hardware development. It introduced essential elements such as core Agile practices, project initiation steps with the MAHD On-ramp, and role translations tailored to non-software environments.

This phase was driven by combining Agile and New Product Development (NPD) best practices aimed to provide teams with a solid foundation for applying Agile in hardware projects. Early tools included core training materials, basic templates and co-developed examples to refine the methods.

Key Contributing Companies

MAHD 2.0 - The Complete MAHD Framework

Building upon the core, MAHD 2.0 introduced the Complete MAHD Framework to apply Agile methods across the full product lifecycle from concept to sustaining engineering. The release also made great leaps in clarifying key concepts to make iterative development and planning more practical for teams, such as the definition of IPAC Iterations to help teams focus on: Integration, Prototyping, Alignment and Customer engagement milestones. 

MAHD 2.0 also enhanced the framework to include more detailed role definitions, project status reporting, management check-ins, and more in-depth support through Playbook 2.0 and  extensive project templates. This release ensured that teams had comprehensive guidelines and tools for successful Agile execution in hardware projects.

Key Contributing Companies

MAHD 3.0 - The MAHD Mastery Zone

MAHD Release 3.0 provides even more indepth guidance for teams to effectively and efficiently develop and align on IPAC Iterations with an emphasis on advanced Agile practices like vertical slice guidance, prototype strategies, and additional Agile portfolio management methods.

The framework became more sophisticated with step-by-step guides, shared resource management, and additional learning tools like MAHD Playbook 3.0 and posters to remind teams of key concepts.

MAHD 3.0 also introduced the MAHD Mastery Zone – a  complete learning portal with videos of each step, complete resources such as templates and learning aids along with quizzes and FAQs.

Key Contributing Companies

MAHD 4.0 - Coming Soon!

The next release in the evolution of the MAHD Framework continues to enhance the framework with a focus on change management and innovative approaches such as brainswarming and VECTR assessments. MAHD Playbook 4.0 introduces even more tools for practical application and learning, while certifications for key roles and further support resources ensure that teams can optimize Agile processes. Iterative cycles of testing and refinement remain a core part of this phase, ensuring that the framework adapts to real-world needs and projects.

We’re currently working with companies in a wide range of companies to implement, validate, and continue improving the MAHD Framework. We look forward to getting your input how to keep making the framework provide more benefits, faster to implement and easier to learn.

How Can You Access All MAHD Framework Tools?

To stay updated with the latest tools and resources, including exclusive access to the MAHD Mastery Zone, we recommend working with a MAHD Certified Consultant and Trainer. Reach out to us or schedule a 45-minute consultation below to explore how we can support your journey.

What Should You Go Next?

Learn More About MAHD

Download the Introduction to MAHD E-book to learn about the key elements of the MAHD Framework  including how to initiate projects, the MAHD On-ramp and tips to get started going MAHD.

Is MAHD Right For You?

The fastest way to learn if MAHD is right for you is to request a 45-minute overview and discussion of your situation. Whether you currently use Stage-Gate, Lean, SAFe or other methods, we can help you quickly learn the unique benefits of the MAHD Framework.