Frontmatter

Gregor Hohpe, an author renowned for his insights on platform strategy and innovation, shares his professional journey and the core ideas from his latest book. He explains 'Gregor's law,' highlighting how decision-making impacts software architecture complexity. The discussion delves into strategic boundaries in product development, drawing parallels with the automobile industry. Hohpe also emphasizes the importance of preemptive customer understanding and reflects on the challenges of writing during the pandemic, showcasing his iterative approach to publishing.

Jeff Sutherland, co-creator of Scrum, discusses his book 'First Principles in Scrum' and his experience as a fighter pilot. They explore the parallels between resistance to change in warfare and the business world. The accuracy of projections and incumbent bias in predictions is questioned. Tesla's agile approach in revolutionizing the car industry is highlighted. The chapter also explores the origins of Scrum and the Agile Manifesto, and the use of AI tools for writing and research.

Neil Studd, an engineering coach and author with over 20 years in agile software development, discusses his journey from aspiring journalist to software testing expert. He shares insights on the importance of 'mojovation'—personalized motivation for better work conditions. Topics include the realities of unpaid internships and career pivots, the advantages of remote work, and practical tips for better video meetings. Neil also dives into intrinsic motivation principles and offers advice on navigating careers with initiative and autonomy.