But what do I even mean by Agile?
In the tradition of the Agile Manifesto, I mean moving directionally toward systems that embody characteristics on the right and away from those on the left as shown in the table below.
There will be some elements on the left present in most systems, but naming them and transparently and collaboratively working through them is key.
Final Notes
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Assume the best
An important prerequisite before taking even the first step is to assume that your team members want to do their best, and, in fact, are doing their best right now given the constraints of the system in which they work.
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Go with the flow
If your assumption is that people by nature shirk their responsibilities, you will gravitate toward systems that embody the characteristics above on the left no matter what you feel your intentions are.
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Get ready to change
But if you’re ready, let’s do this. Know the history and context of why Agile and Lean concepts are so powerful and…
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Have the right conversations.
Stop the endless debate.
Start enjoying being productive together.