Avoid Local Optimization in Agile Transformation
The benefits of agile transformation can be elusive if you don't take the big picture view and understand how value is created in your organization. Organizations that start by applying…
Retrospective Tip Sheet
I hosted a workshop at a client recently on improving your retrospective. Rather than focus on specific techniques (like I did in this related post), I focused on overall planning…
Facilitating Participatory Decision-Making Part 1
I have to admit, I always thought I understood exactly what Participatory Decision-Making (PDM) meant. I also prided myself on my facilitation skills - on dot voting, silent writing, fist of…
Agile Transformations Take Too Long – A Cautionary Tale
As humans, we are extremely short-term focused. We have a need for immediate gratification. We expect things to happen now, or better yet, yesterday. Being led by humans, corporations tend…
For High-Performing Teams Treat Members Equally
In my related post on high-performing teams, I described the importance of psychological safety in teams. Harvard professor Amy Edmondson coined the term psychological safety and is the leading authority…
There Are Too Many Scrum Meetings
A pretty common complaint with the Scrum Framework is that there are too many Scrum meetings. Let's explore this complaint to understand if it is valid, why it might occur,…
Transition from Project Manager to Scrum Master
Being a Great Scrum Master can be LearnedIn my related post, I argued that most Project Managers make lousy Scrum Masters. It's not on purpose, it just happens that the skills that…
Scrum Masters Need to be Good Listeners
As a Scrum Master, listening is one of the most important tools in your tool box. While there are reasons for the Scrum Master to speak up, in general Scrum…
Project Managers Make Lousy Scrum Masters
Don't get mad at me. Though it may sound tough or critical, the reality is that most project managers make lousy scrum masters. I didn't make that up—I’ve been hearing…
Agile Tool Survey
In my related post on the pitfalls of Agile Tools, I talked about some of the traps and problems of using Agile Lifecycle Management (ALM) Tools. I probably sound like…