The Disciplined Agile (DA) principle of being pragmatic is characterized by the focus on "being as effective as you can and continuously improving." According to PMI's Disciplined Agile Toolkit, being pragmatic means applying an agile mindset that is not constrained by a rigid set of rules or practices. Instead, it emphasizes being practical and outcome-focused, aiming for the best results in each unique context while continually seeking opportunities for improvement.
Disciplined Agile promotes pragmatic decision-making by suggesting that teams should balance their approach by being both goal-driven and situation-aware. This means that instead of strictly adhering to a single agile framework or methodology, teams should assess their situation, leverage their experience, and apply the most suitable tools and techniques available. Furthermore, continuous improvement (Kaizen) is a fundamental aspect, meaning teams should regularly reflect on their practices and make iterative enhancements to achieve effectiveness.
This principle also aligns with DA's guidance to "Optimize Flow" and "Be Awesome," as it encourages teams to deliver value while recognizing that every situation might require different tools, techniques, and practices.
Thus, "D. Being as effective as you can and continuously improving" best captures the essence of DA's pragmatic approach.