Troubleshooting Agile
Greatest Hits - Commitment: Engagement is (Still) Not Enough
Apr 9, 2025
Discover the crucial difference between engagement and true commitment in agile teams. The hosts share tools to foster real commitments and highlight a cautionary tale about avoiding isolated components in software development. They stress the need for a shared language in project management to ensure clear communication. The discussion also covers the pitfalls of a defensive mindset, advocating for an environment that promotes pride and constructive feedback, ultimately leading to better alignment and collaboration.
13:49
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Quick takeaways
- Effective teamwork requires a shared understanding of commitments to ensure everyone is aligned on project deliverables and definitions of 'done'.
- The metaphor of a 'walking skeleton' highlights the importance of integrated development over isolated efforts to achieve cohesive and functional results.
Deep dives
Engagement vs. Commitment
Engagement alone is insufficient for a successful agile team; merely having team members who are excited or interested does not guarantee effective collaboration or outcomes. It is essential to establish a shared understanding of commitments within the team, as differing interpretations of what is meant by 'done' can lead to misunderstandings and unmet expectations. For instance, a team might agree to complete a task by Friday, but without a clear definition of 'done,' each member may have a different expectation of completion. This shared understanding helps to mitigate issues that arise from varied interpretations of project deliverables.
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