Aim/Purpose.
This exploratory study seeks to surface a richer understanding regarding the direct experience of software developers (SDs) working in sprints as part of the adoption of agile methodology principles.

Background.
The software development industry is increasingly adopting agile development methods. In the agile methodology, the delivery cycle is broken down into sprints, also known as iterations. There is relatively little empirical knowledge produced to date on agile software development methods. Specifically, the SDs’ authentic work experience in agile sprints is a subject that is missing from the literature.

Methodology.
This paper presents results based on data collected through preliminary in-depth interviews with SDs working in research and development teams of Israeli high-tech companies. As a heuristic device for describing their experience, an interpretive phenomenological perspective was adopted. Content analysis was used as a central methodology to analyze the data.

Findings.
The preliminary results present the ways of managing a development project in sprints, put a spotlight on the value of the agile method, and provide a unique glimpse of its challenges.

Contribution.
Our work adds to the growing body of research investigating the SDs’ perceptions. The preliminary results develop the theoretical and practical knowledge related to managing agile sprints, with reference to optimal communication, monitoring, control, and knowledge sharing among SDs in agile projects.