Encore Episode - The State of Agile with David Hussman

In this encore episode of The Schmidt List from 2018, I interview David Hussman, founder of DevJam, speaker, author, and software development expert. As I look back on my past 200+ episodes, I can't help but feel a sense of joy and nostalgia. Remastering some of my favorite episodes has been an absolute pleasure, and I'm excited to share them with all of you. It's fascinating to see how much has remained the same in software development since this episode (No.016) was published in 2018. It's a great reminder of the timeless principles that guide our work.

During our discussion, we discussed the changes in software development that have taken place in the last 20 years and what direction it is going towards, specifically regarding the transition from project-centered to product-centered development. David provided valuable advice on coaching teams to adopt a product-focused approach, especially in larger companies.

Highlights:

• Analyzing and presenting data visually can help teams discover new trends. This approach makes it easier to spot trends and can inspire fresh ideas.
• Value-aligning teams with customer impact and encouraging developers to interact with customers to understand their needs better.
• Don't rely solely on technological advances or the competition's roadmap for product improvement ideas.
• To optimize productivity and minimize handoffs prioritize teamwork.
• Executives should encourage knowledge-sharing and take responsibility for desired behavior.
• Executives should encourage and motivate teams to communicate.
• Communication is vital in software development, especially in large organizations with siloed teams.
• Customer journey mapping and impact-driven development can help understand the effect of features and investments.

According to David, as a technology or design leader, admitting mistakes is the most crucial characteristic. It's essential to be transparent and accountable for your actions; this willingness to take responsibility can inspire trust and respect from your team. So, feel free to own up to your mistakes and work towards finding solutions. It's all part of being a strong and effective leader.

I feel incredibly fortunate to have crossed paths with David, as I gained a great deal of knowledge from him in the short time I spent with him, and I will always cherish the lessons he imparted to me.

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