ABC2006: Kent Beck - Agility is not enough

The weasel is agile and fast. But Kent asks "would you trust one? Other than agility what else do individuals, teams and organisations need?"

He identified the following:

Trustworthiness: People are trustworthy when they do what they say they'll do, promise no more than they can deliver and maintain good intent.

Responsibility: "How would you develop if it was your money? Would you spend it on a PRD?" You want low cost and high value delivery. Be aligned with the vision because "it's easier to choose features when you know why you're doing it." And "software is a long game so a sustainable pace if essential."

Accountability: "Being accountable is a step towards being considered trustworthy." Be honest. Have nothing to hide. Work in steps of real functionality. And ship early and ship often.

Awareness: Reflect on your work, your choices and their implications. Be aware of others. Respect them and their needs and the feedback they offer. Learn to read emotions in faces, tone of voice, and body language.

Kent says "it boils down to learning, which involves practices, technology and people skills. Successful businesses need trustworthy accountable behaviour from individuals and organisations."

Listen to what Kent is thinking.


Tags: agile business conference, agile

posted by Simon Baker @ permalink
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