DSDM Atern has eight principles. They represent an ethos, a culture, a way of working.  The principles are actively managed at all times because if a principle becomes compromised it represents a risk to the successful execution and completion of a project. 

The 8 Principles of DSDM are as follows:

1. Focus on the business need

2. Deliver on time

3. Collaborate

4. Never compromise quality

5. Build incrementally from firm foundations

6. Develop iteratively

7. Communicate continuously and clearly

8. Demonstrate control