

Troubleshooting Agile
A weekly problem-solving session for all things agile
Troubleshooting Agile is a problem-solving session for agile teams. Jeffrey Fredrick and Douglas Squirrel look at common problems agile teams face and provide practical, immediately useful advice for getting back on track.
Episodes
Mentioned books

6 snips
Feb 9, 2022 • 22min
A Radical Enterprise: Part II
Matt Parker, author of 'A Radical Enterprise,' dives into the evolution of organizational structures. He highlights the rise of radical collaboration, contrasting it with traditional hierarchies. Parker discusses the benefits of egalitarian models and how they spark innovation. He explores the significance of shared principles in fostering unity, especially in software development, and shares effective strategies for transforming workplaces into collaborative environments. The conversation emphasizes the power of self-management and community in enhancing organizational performance.

9 snips
Feb 1, 2022 • 22min
A Radical Enterprise: Part I
In this engaging discussion, Matt Parker, author of "A Radical Enterprise," shares insights from his transformative journey in programming. He unpacks the concept of radical collaboration and its four key principles, emphasizing autonomy and open communication. Parker critiques dominator hierarchies and highlights how they undermine human needs like security. He also presents a case study from Tim Group, showcasing innovative work practices. With a focus on practical applications, he encourages listeners to rethink workplace dynamics and embrace a more decentralized approach.

6 snips
Jan 26, 2022 • 23min
The 5-Year Backlog, Part II
Dive into the chaotic world of managing a massive tech backlog while tackling the hidden costs of technical debt. Learn how team alignment and unchosen deadlines can skew project success. Discover the strategy of feature thinning for rapid feedback and improved planning. Navigate the tricky waters of organizational norms and the power of difficult conversations. Finally, explore the importance of perseverance in tough work environments and the rewards that come from pushing forward.

Jan 19, 2022 • 22min
The 5-Year Backlog, Part I
The hosts tackle the daunting issue of a massive backlog that's spiraling out of control. They explore the myth that adding team members can solve late project woes instead of addressing underlying problems. A critical look at communication gaps between leadership and frontline employees reveals insights on fostering better understanding. The discussion emphasizes the importance of reducing backlogs to boost productivity and highlights the complexities of team dynamics in fast-paced environments.

Jan 12, 2022 • 12min
The Opposite of Co-Creation
An inspiring story about a Braille Rubik's Cube sheds light on the importance of user empathy in design, particularly for those with disabilities. The discussion emphasizes that understanding diverse user needs is vital for effective software development. Power dynamics within teams are explored, highlighting the challenges of voicing concerns in rigid structures. Trust and open engagement are deemed crucial for fostering better collaboration and product outcomes, reminding everyone to challenge assumptions and actively seek user feedback.

7 snips
Jan 5, 2022 • 16min
Listener Poll: Why Listen?
Discover the divide between organizations that merely offer perks to developers and those truly seeking transformative change. The hosts discuss listener motivations, weighing entertainment against actionable insights. They tackle the challenges of convincing skeptical clients to embrace new technologies and share reflections on the vital role of communication in facilitating trust. Engaging the community, they invite thoughts on why audiences tune in, fostering a valuable dialogue as they kick off the new year.

9 snips
Dec 29, 2021 • 13min
James Shore: The Art of Agile Development, Part II
James Shore, author of 'The Art of Agile Development,' discusses the evolution of Agile methodologies and the concept of 'delivering fluency.' He delves into how developer resistance is decreasing and emphasizes the need for effective change management. James highlights the real versus perceived benefits of agile practices, pointing out the importance of genuine collaboration. He advocates for enjoyment in Agile teams as a crucial aspect of success, suggesting that a fun environment boosts team morale and overall productivity.

11 snips
Dec 22, 2021 • 19min
James Shore: The Art of Agile Development, Part I
James Shore, author of the influential book 'The Art of Agile Development,' shares insights on Agile practices. He debunks misconceptions surrounding Agile methodologies, emphasizing the pitfalls of 'cargo cult agile.' Shore discusses balancing control with productivity using the Tilted Slider concept and introduces the Agile Fluency Model to target business outcomes. He highlights the importance of practitioner skills, team autonomy, and organizational support for effective Agile implementation, all while navigating the complexities of control and flexibility in development.

8 snips
Dec 15, 2021 • 14min
Mobbing for Safety
Dive into the wild world of mob programming, where 20 people and 1 keyboard forge collaboration like never before! Discover why traditional pull requests can stifle creativity and how co-creation fosters psychological safety. Explore the tension between solo and collaborative coding, unlocking the paradox that teamwork boosts quality. Learn how engaging customers transforms team dynamics, enhancing trust and pushing boundaries. Embrace vulnerability for remarkable outcomes!

13 snips
Dec 8, 2021 • 21min
Greatest Hits - Software Factory To Feature Factory
From their popular episode, the podcast discusses the transition from software factory to feature factory, exploring Taylorism, Theories X and Y, and the Cynefin framework. They emphasize the importance of understanding conversational quality and the concept of cargo culting in agile practices. The limitations of relying solely on agile practices and the challenges of human interactions are also explored.