Dive into the intriguing dynamics of collaboration in tech teams, where shared problem ownership can make or break efficiency. The hosts dissect the 'why, what, and how' framework, balancing these elements for effective teamwork. They also explore the challenges of navigating leaky abstractions in software development, drawing parallels to the complexities of historic scaffold building. Plus, discover the benefits of rapid integration and prioritization in project execution for improved outcomes. Tune in for insights that can transform your approach!
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Missing What and How
During quarterly planning, Jeffrey's team had documented the "why" for initiatives but lacked "what" and "how".
This lack of detail hindered prioritization and dependency management when merging multiple teams.
insights INSIGHT
Siloed Tech Teams
Teams often work on separate technology layers (frontend, backend, database) without sufficient collaboration.
This lack of cross-functional work leads to duplicated components and inefficient processes.
insights INSIGHT
Shared Problem Ownership
Focusing on individual areas of responsibility instead of shared problem ownership hinders effective teamwork.
Teams should define themselves by a shared problem to promote collective problem-solving.
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The book follows Arthur Dent, an ordinary Englishman, whose house and planet are about to be demolished. He is rescued by his friend Ford Prefect, an alien researcher for the 'Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy'. Together, they embark on a journey through space, encountering various characters such as Zaphod Beeblebrox, the two-headed, three-armed president of the galaxy, Trillian, a human woman, and Marvin, a paranoid android. The story involves their adventures on the spaceship Heart of Gold, which has an Infinite Improbability Drive, and their quest to understand the ultimate question of life, the universe, and everything, which is revealed to be '42'. The novel is known for its humor, satire, and imaginative storytelling.
Agile Conversations
Douglas Squirrel
Jeffrey Fredrick
Start with Why
How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action
Simon Sinek
In 'Start with Why', Simon Sinek introduces the concept of 'The Golden Circle', which consists of 'Why', 'How', and 'What'. He argues that successful leaders and organizations start with their purpose or 'Why', which inspires loyalty and trust. Sinek uses examples such as Apple, Martin Luther King Jr., and the Wright Brothers to illustrate how this approach can lead to significant influence and success. The book emphasizes the importance of leadership and purpose in inspiring others and achieving long-term success.
If you’re using Sinek’s “why, what and how” framework for team collaboration, what do you do when it turns out you’re lacking two out of the three?! In this episode, Squirrel and Jeffrey talk about their own experience of this, the concept of leaky abstractions, and the importance of shared problem ownership.
Links:
- Simon Sinek: https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/
- Somebody Else's Problem Field: https://hitchhikers.fandom.com/wiki/Somebody_Else%27s_Problem_Field
- Previous episode about Walking Skeletons - Ep125: Commitment Engagement is Not Enough:
https://soundcloud.com/troubleshootingagile/commitment-engagement-is-not-enough
- Previous episode about Cycle Time - Ep249: Estimates: A Productive Argument, Part I
https://soundcloud.com/troubleshootingagile/reporting-estimates
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You'll find free videos and practice material, plus our book Agile Conversations, at agileconversations.com
And we'd love to hear any thoughts, ideas, or feedback you have about the show: email us at info@agileconversations.com
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About Your Hosts
Douglas Squirrel and Jeffrey Fredrick joined forces at TIM Group in 2013, where they studied and practised the art of management through difficult conversations. Over a decade later, they remain united in their passion for growing profitable organisations through better communication.
Squirrel is an advisor, author, keynote speaker, coach, and consultant, and he's helped over 300 companies of all sizes make huge, profitable improvements in their culture, skills, and processes. You can find out more about his work here: douglassquirrel.com/index.html
Jeffrey is Vice President of Engineering at ION Analytics, Organiser at CITCON, the Continuous Integration and Testing Conference, and is an accomplished author and speaker. You can connect with him here: www.linkedin.com/in/jfredrick/
Troubleshooting Agile 
