Summary: In this conversation, Scott Ambler discusses his extensive background in the Agile community, the current state of Agile practices, and the need for a shift in focus from process to value. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of executives in Agile transformations and the necessity of governance. The discussion also touches on the challenges of measuring ROI and the potential impact of AI on Agile methodologies. Ambler advocates for a future where Agile practices evolve beyond outdated frameworks and emphasizes the importance of knowledge and skill in the Agile community.   In spite of the low brow scatological reference, and the frequently derisive tone, Scott shares his opinion of what's gone awry in the Agile world. It is interesting and a bit ironic given he was one of the early pioneers. Might have been even more insightful if he had shared how he viewed his role/contribution in the overall "shatting".

Summary:   This week our hosts are all over the place covering a potpourri of items like the merits of Zero Based Budgeting, the Professional Managerial Class, Change Management, Venture Capital, prioritization between mission and profit - all within the orbit of Getting Stuff Done.   Matt and Mike share experiences of their initiation into the world of agile. They debate their theories about how the Agile Industrial Complex got into its current state (predicament) and at what point did the mission focus shift to being secondary to profit.

Summary:   This episode we talk to Nigel Thurlow, co-author of The Flow System Playbook.  A super interesting session where Nigel does a deep dive sharing his experience  on Flow concepts as he was embedded at Toyota (as well as other organizations).   "The Flow System is not a framework" Nigel explains and that the key to all the "competing" approaches is not an either/or but an amalgam of concepts. The magic occurs in the interconnection of Lean and Agile methods, approaches and frameworks.  And per Nigel, "most Agile practitioners and many Scrum practitioners lack a fundamental, deep expertise and understanding in Lean thinking."   Nigel has compiled his perspectives of Flow in his recent book - The Flow System Playbook, which is not actually a playbook per se. Listen in as Matt and Mike simply wind him up and let him roam - free range style.

Summary:   In this episode of HTAT, our guest Klaus Leopold - originator of the Flight Levels approach - takes us through the what, why and how of applying his Flight Levels approach.   Klaus explains that this is NOT a scaling framework so much as it is a thinking model to overcome the limits of local optimization approaches (sub-optimization) by focusing on three levels (upstream from the team operational level). It's an effort to connect and align the work of an organization from strategy to execution through iteration and continual improvement.   Referencing real-life examples from a German engineering organization, Klaus describes how his approach came to be and continues to evolve.  

Summary: This episode we open up the CIO's Value Stream Management (VSM) Playbook as authored by Mik Kersten and his crew at Planview. This playbook is directed at, well CIO's of course, desiring and maybe driving toward creating high performing technology organizations within large enterprises. Mik draws from insights and understanding based on a handful of interviewed CIO's highlighting their priorities and constraints to running these organizations.   There are 12 steps (or concepts perhaps?) of which we were able to dissect only the first 6 due to time limits. But just these 6 take us into some interesting discussions.   We plan to take up the remaining 6 steps/concepts in a subsequent session. Stay tuned.

Summary: This episode we tackle the development of an assessment tool unencumbered by Lean and Agile jargon. We focus on the need (the why) and the what would be valuable in an outcome-based assessment and how might you use it to measure genuine progress towards overarching objectives in coaching engagements.  Lastly, we discuss the limitations of current assessment and measurement tools and how they paint an incomplete picture.

Summary: In this episode we delve into the engineering philosophy of Elon Musk, as discussed by Tom Gilb. We explore Musk's five-step approach to engineering, which emphasizes simplifying requirements, optimizing design, and accelerating cycle time. We draw parallels between these principles and Agile methodologies, highlighting the importance of simplicity and iterative development.   The discussion also touches on the potential pitfalls of Musk's approach, particularly when taken to extremes, and the challenges of implementing such philosophies in large organizations. We discuss and emphasize the need for effective stakeholder management and the importance of setting clear expectations in Agile processes.   Throughout the episode, the ultimately we reflect on the broader lessons that can be learned from Musk's approach, while acknowledging the complexities and nuances involved in applying these principles in different contexts.

Summary This episode we delve into the complexities of continuous improvement in organizations, emphasizing the importance of leadership and culture in driving change. We discuss how consulting firms provide strategic advice but often lack practical experience, highlighting the need for clients to discern value.   We then explore the challenges organizations face in embracing continuous improvement, frequently hindered by entrenched practices and a focus on efficiency over innovation.   A dive into the role of leadership in evolving systems, using examples like Boeing and Apple to illustrate how leadership transitions and cultural shifts impact organizational focus and success. And argue that leadership should prioritize innovation and quality to ensure long-term success, rather than merely maintaining the status quo.

Summary: In this episode, the hosts discuss the importance of using the right tools and frameworks, such as Scrum and Kanban, in the appropriate contexts. They explore some misconceptions around agile methodologies and emphasize the significance of focusing on outcomes rather than rigid adherence to frameworks. The conversation delves into the challenges of organizational transformation, the high failure rate of such initiatives, and the need for effective change leadership. The hosts also touch on the concept of fiduciary responsibility in agile coaching and the potential pitfalls of becoming too ingrained in a client's organization.

Summary   In this episode, hosts Matt, Mike, and Jeff are joined by special guest Jim Benson to discuss the concept of Obeya. Jim shares his journey from punk rocker to Agile pioneer.   They do a deep dive into the origins and real world use of Obeya, a concept that emphasizes visualizing work to enhance collaboration and alignment within and between teams.   The discussion highlights some of the successes of Obeya, using examples from GE's appliance division to illustrate how transparency and trust can transform a workplace. Jim addresses the role of communication tools in team dynamics, advocating for a streamlined approach to avoid confusion and inefficiency.   The episode concludes with insights into continuous improvement and the need for adaptability in work systems, emphasizing the ultimate goal to create environments where teams can thrive and innovate.

Summary: In this episode, Matt and Jeff kick around the intricacies of business transformation and potential of value-based consulting. They discuss the importance of demonstrating value to clients, the challenges of measuring and justifying consulting fees, and the potential benefits of alternative compensation models. They also emphasize the necessity of trust and alignment between consultants and clients - particularly if using an alternative compensation model.

Summary: In this episode, hosts Matt Beam and Mike Marchi dive into the ongoing and thought-provoking discussion with guests Huy Nguyen and Marcelo Lopez Jr. about the evolving role of Agile coaching. They explore the historical context of Agile, its perceived effectiveness in today’s industry, and the growing debate around the true value and definition of an Agile coach.   Central to the discussion is the provocative hashtag #NoSuchThingAsAnAgileCoach, which sparks a debate on the true value and role of Agile coaches. The guests argue for a more integrated approach, emphasizing the need for coaches who are not only skilled in Agile practices but also deeply understand the business and product management aspects. They highlight the necessity of leadership and strategic thinking in driving successful Agile transformations.   This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the current and future state of Agile and coaching.

Summary:   Our hosts delve into the complexities of defining agile coaching, exploring the different interpretations and debates surrounding the concept. They discuss the motivations behind various definitions, the original intentions of the Agile Manifesto, and the potential pitfalls of conflating coaching with therapy - not that anyone has to their knowledge. The conversation also extends to a fun little romp with turtles, in the titled "turtles all the way down" reference, to illustrate the layered nature of these discussions. They wrap up with a light-hearted debate on the future of agile methodologies and the potential for new frameworks to emerge.

Summary:   In this episode, the hosts delve into the heated debate surrounding the role and perception of Agile coaches in the industry. They reflect on recent debates sparked by controversial statements from a notable figure and colleague, Marcelo Lopez, who challenges the very existence of Agile coaching as it is currently understood. The conversation explores the evolving nature of Agile practices, the differentiation between generalists and specialists, and the ethical considerations in coaching. The hosts also draw intriguing analogies to the medical field, highlighting the importance of context, expertise, and overarching goals.

Summary: In this episode, the Matt, Mike and Jeff discuss strategies to address cycle time reduction in Agile teams, touching on concepts of ensemble programming and cross-functional teams. The conversation explores how to manage dependencies across multiple teams, the risks and benefits of parallel versus sequential work, and the formation of temporary, high-performing "tiger teams" or "war rooms" to tackle urgent tasks. The hosts also share personal stories and examples from their experiences, highlighting the importance of flexibility, rapid feedback loops, and adaptive team structures in Agile practices.

Summary: In this episode, the hosts dive into the key principles of demand and delivery management as described in "The Book of TameFlow" by Steve Tendon. They explore the challenges of balancing demand with delivery capacity, the importance of reducing work in process (WIP), and strategies for convincing executive management to adopt these practices. The discussion includes real-world examples, practical advice for Agile coaches, and the relevance of flow metrics in improving team performance.

Summary:   Matt and Mike begin by recounting their recent experiences discussing throughput accounting, highlighting its utility as a prioritization tool over traditional cost accounting. They explore the struggles businesses face when trying to integrate these theories, especially in manufacturing settings with long production cycles and perishable products.   The conversation includes discussion on a recent presentation on the Flow at Scale management framework. The hosts critique the presentation's depth and applying the approach to real life business structures and situations.   Lastly, we take yet another dive into the ever recurring, and frequently amusing rabbit hole of AI, Large Language Models and AI's role in business and its potential to streamline operations through differing models. The hosts ponder the future of AI in business consulting and its ethical implications.

Summary   In this episode, Matt Beam, Michael Marchi, and Jeff Singleton explore the integration of throughput accounting and the Theory of Constraints into Agile methodologies with CPA and Throughput Accounting expert Daniel Doiron. The conversation dives deep into how these frameworks can radically improve project management and decision-making in software development and knowledge work environments.   Daniel elaborates on the principles of drum-buffer-rope (DBR) and the critical importance of identifying and optimizing constraints within systems to enhance overall productivity and economic efficiency. We add  insights from our consulting experience, emphasizing the challenges and benefits of applying these theories in real-world scenarios.

Summary   Jeff Singleton, Mike Marchi, and Matt Beam engage in a thoughtful conversation about various "laws" that have influenced Agile practices and project management. They reflect on Stefan Wolpers' compilation of eight significant laws, which include familiar principles such as Conway's Law and Brooks' Law, and introduce listeners to others like Hackman's and Larman's Laws.   The discussion evolves into an exploration of how these laws apply not only in Agile contexts but universally across different domains. They debate the nature of complexity in organizational structures and the value of simplifying approaches to enhance effectiveness.   The hosts also ponder the cyclical nature of learning and forgetting in professional practices, suggesting a future where Agile methodologies are so integrated into work processes that they no longer need to be explicitly identified.

Summary:   In this episode, hosts Matt, Mike, and Jeff delve into the world of throughput accounting with expert Graham Scott, who shares insights from his extensive experience in the field. Graham explains how throughput accounting differs from traditional accounting methods and emphasizes its practical applications in improving business efficiency and prioritization. The discussion also covers the theory of constraints and its relevance to modern businesses, especially in knowledge work environments.

In this episode, our hosts delve into fallacies in the realm of Agile practices and discuss some within organizational structures applied in a Scrum@Scale model.  They ponder the future role of Agile methodologies in the workplace.  The conversation spans from the Scrum at Scale framework to the evolution of Agile as a fundamental skill in the modern job market.  Lastly, an exploration of the recent RTO drive and discussion on the balance between remote and in-office work environments.

In this episode, our hosts and their guest dive into the complexities of the current job market, the state of agile, and the broader impacts of business strategies on employee stability and company culture. With a special focus on the tech industry's response to economic pressures and the ongoing debate about the true nature of agility in business, this conversation illuminates some of the challenges and opportunities facing companies and professionals today.

In this insightful episode, Matt Beam, Mike Marchi, and Jeff Singleton delve deep into the intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Agile coaching. They explore whether an AI, like ChatGPT, can serve as an effective coach in the Agile domain, the concept of prompt engineering, the potential applications of AI in Agile transformations, and the importance of human oversight in using AI tools.   Key Takeaways AI can be a powerful assistive tool in Agile coaching, particularly in dealing with complex data and specific problem-solving. Human oversight is essential in using AI effectively, ensuring that AI-generated insights are interpreted and applied wisely. The development of prompt engineering skills is crucial for making the most of AI tools like ChatGPT. While AI holds promise for enhancing Agile transformations, it cannot replace the nuanced judgment and wisdom of human coaches.

Summary In an engaging discussion, the hosts (Matt, Mike and Jeff) explore the limitations of using velocity as a primary metric for agile teams and delve into alternative metrics that offer a more holistic view of team performance and project progress. They dissect insights from a post by Chris Stone, which lists "ten" metrics that provide deeper insights into team dynamics, user engagement, and value delivery. The conversation also humorously debates the effectiveness of cat memes in boosting morale, highlighting the importance of a light-hearted team environment. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolving landscape of agile metrics and the potential of flow metrics to drive significant improvements in how teams measure success.

In this episode, the hosts tackle the common dilemma of sprint planning when holidays approach, leading to reduced team capacity. They emphasize the need to scale back commitments proportionally to the available capacity while cautioning against the false precision that numbers can suggest. The conversation shifts towards the importance of qualitative assessment over quantitative metrics, suggesting a more nuanced approach to sprint planning that involves the entire team's input to realistically gauge what can be accomplished. Moreover, they discuss the potential pitfalls of over-relying on metrics like story points or velocity, highlighting the risk of losing sight of the real goal: delivering value. The discussion also touches on the concept of flow metrics and its application in predicting project timelines, albeit with an acknowledgment of its limitations and the inherent unpredictability of complex projects.

Hosts: Matt Beam and Michael Marchi Summary: In this insightful episode of "Here's This Agile Thing," hosts Matt Beam and Mike Marchi delve into the concept of Value Stream Networks in Agile. With the absence of their usual co-host, Jeff Singleton, they engage in a deep and thought-provoking discussion, exploring the complexities and practical applications of Value Stream Networks in various organizational settings.   The hosts discuss the relatively new concept of Value Stream Networks, drawing references from Mik Kirsten's book and software solutions.   Conclusion: This episode of "Here's This Agile Thing" breaks down the complex topic of Value Stream Networks, offering valuable insights for both practitioners and enthusiasts in the field of Agile.

This episode dives deep into the complexities of implementing agile frameworks within organizations, particularly focusing on scaling agile practices and the concept of value streams versus value stream networks. The hosts, Matt Beam, Mike Marchi, and Jeff Singleton, engage in a detailed and insightful discussion on the challenges and dynamics of organizing teams in both small and large organizations, examining different scenarios where agile methodologies and team structures can be applied effectively. The podcast explores the nuanced challenges of applying agile frameworks in organizational contexts, touching on the difference of value streams versus value stream networks. The discussion pivots around how teams are organized and coordinated, especially in scenarios where the work is complex and multifaceted, involving various teams such as those focusing on data, security, infrastructure, and marketing. The hosts review the idea of value stream mapping, its practicality in different organizational sizes, and the potential shift towards more fluid and adaptable structures in line with emerging agile practices. They also highlight the importance of avoiding silos and maintaining flexibility in team structures to adapt to changing needs and demands. Conclusion: The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of the need for organizations to adopt flexible and dynamic team structures, tailored to their specific needs and challenges. The discussion underscores the importance of continuous adaptation and the judicious use of rigid frameworks in agile practices.

Topic:   This episode delves into the critical role of leadership in agile transformations, particularly focusing on the need for leaders to actively engage and participate in the agile methodologies they endorse. Summary: In this insightful episode, Mike, Jeff and Matt discuss the pressing issue of agile leaders genuinely adopting and participating in the agile methodologies they promote within their organizations. The conversation revolves around the concept of "eating your own dog food" or practicing what you preach, especially in the context of agile transformations. The trio explore the various aspects of leadership engagement in agile processes, questioning whether merely initiating an agile transformation equates to true leadership participation. They contemplate the significance of leaders not just being spectators but active participants, emphasizing the need for involvement beyond just sanctioning processes. The dialogue further delves into the importance of mental models in leadership, the distinction between viewing IT as a cost center versus a value creation center, and the challenges and responsibilities that come with leading agile transformations. They touch upon the concepts of impediment removal, accountability, and the critical role of executive action teams in driving change. Through this episode, Mike, Jeff and Matt aim to enlighten listeners on the multifaceted challenges and considerations that leaders face in genuinely embodying agile principles and leading their organizations towards successful agile transformations.

Summary: In this episode, Jeff, Mike and Matt delve deep into the concept of Open Space Technology, an approach to facilitate ad hoc discussions among large groups of people with the aim of solving complex problems. They cover the fundamental principles, methodologies, and real-world applications of Open Space, touching upon its adaptability and effectiveness in various organizational contexts.   Closing: Jeff, Mike and Matt conclude the session by reflecting on the transformative potential of Open Space Technology when applied correctly and the necessity of adopting a flexible, open-minded approach for optimal results. They emphasize its relevance and adaptability across various fields and scenarios. The session ends with a reminder of the agility and creativity inherent in Open Space, encouraging listeners to consider it for their complex, pressing challenges.

Summary: This episode delves into the complexities of agile transformations in organizations, specifically focusing on the challenges of role transitions, responsibilities, and the necessity of involving HR in the process. The hosts, with their guest, discuss the nuances of adopting agile approaches, the importance of competency over titles, and the intricate interplay between HR policies and agile roles. They emphasize the need for a shift from traditional project management to a more flexible, value-focused approach, underscoring the critical role of HR in supporting these transformations. Conclusion: The episode highlights that successful agile transformations require more than just a change in titles or methodologies. It demands a holistic approach that includes competency development, HR involvement, and a shift in organizational mindset towards value-driven practices. The discussions point towards the need for a collaborative and well-planned approach to ensure the effective integration of agile approaches into organizational structures.

Summary: In this insightful episode, Mike Marchi, Jeff Singleton and Matt Beam delve into the complexities of agile transformation in organizations. They discuss the challenges of implementing agile methodologies, particularly in environments where traditional management structures prevail. The conversation spans the roles of project managers, the Scrum of Scrums concept, the application of the Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe), and the need for change management skills in agile coaching.   Closing Remarks: This episode offers a comprehensive look into the practical challenges and considerations of agile transformations in modern organizations. The insights from Mike, Jeff and Matt highlight the importance of adaptability, leadership support, and change management in the journey towards true agility.

Summary In this insightful episode, Mike, Jeff and Matt delve into the intricacies of Agile frameworks, particularly focusing on the coordination challenges in large-scale projects involving multiple teams. They discuss the scrum of scrums—a key mechanism for orchestrating team efforts in large projects. The conversation touches upon various roles in Agile teams, such as architects, tech leads, scrum masters, and product owners. They also explore the dynamics between project management and Agile methodologies, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right roles for effective communication and coordination in the scrum of scrums.   Conclusion: The episode wraps up with a reflection on the importance of role clarity and effective communication in Agile project management.

Hosts: Matt Beam, Mike Marchi and Jeff Singleton Topic: Discussion on Marty Cagan's views on product management and outcome-based development Key themes: Importance of outcomes in product development, challenges in measuring value, and prioritizing predictability over outcomes in organizations. Summary: In this episode, the hosts delve into Marty Cagan's insights on product management, particularly focusing on outcome-based development. They explore the concept of prioritizing business outcomes and the challenges organizations face in measuring these outcomes and their associated value. A significant part of the discussion is dedicated to understanding the balance between predictability and achieving outcomes, especially in contexts where organizations struggle with delivering products. The hosts also touch upon the pitfalls of spreading people too thin across multiple initiatives and the importance of focus. They emphasize the need for product managers to understand customer needs deeply and avoid being mere order-takers. The conversation covers the structural challenges larger organizations face in finding or fostering effective product owners and the potential need for revolutionary changes in organizational structure to achieve better product development outcomes.

This episode of "Here's This Agile Thing" offers a deep dive into the complexities of teaching agile methodologies through interactive simulations, both in physical and virtual environments. The hosts' experience and insights provide valuable perspectives for anyone involved in agile training or looking to improve team dynamics.   Hosts Mike, Matt, and Jeff delve into the nuances of agile training in both virtual and physical settings. Mike shares his excitement about returning to live training after a long period of remote work, highlighting the unique value of real-time audience engagement that's absent in virtual settings. The discussion then shifts to the "ball game," an agile simulation involving tennis balls to teach principles like cross-functional collaboration and handling work under pressure. The hosts explore the challenges of adapting this physical game to a virtual environment. They discuss various online tools and simulations, like the "game of circles," which employs a virtual canvas for collaborative exercises. The conversation revolves around making these tools effective for teaching agile principles, such as handling work interruptions and managing team dynamics. Jeff emphasizes the importance of practical exercises in learning and the need to adapt training to the team's specific context. The episode concludes with a plan to refine these virtual tools further and apply the lessons in upcoming training sessions.    

Podcast Title: Exploring the Impact of the 'Rot Economy' on Business Models and Agility Episode Summary: This episode delves into the intricacies of the evolving business landscape shaped by the rot economy, venture capital trends, and the role of agility in startups. The speakers discuss the sustainability of business models like Uber, DoorDash, and Cloud Kitchens, examining their profitability, customer value, and the changing dynamics in the venture capital sector. Key Topics: Venture Capital and Innovation Stagnation Zero Interest Rate Impact on Business Models Profitability Challenges in Companies like Uber and DoorDash Brand Loyalty and Consumer Behavior The Concept of Cloud Kitchens Agility and Iteration in Startups The Changing Venture Capital Landscape Summary In this insightful conversation, the speakers explore the challenges and dynamics of the 'rot economy,' focusing on how venture capital and low interest rates have influenced business models and innovation. They discuss companies like Uber and DoorDash, analyzing their struggles with profitability and the value they provide to customers. A key point is the comparison between traditional and disruptive business models, such as Amazon's transition to profitability with AWS and the emergence of food delivery services. The conversation also covers the concept of Cloud Kitchens, a new business model proposed by Uber's founder, focusing on efficiency in food delivery. They discuss the potential impact of such a model on traditional restaurants and delivery services, considering aspects like brand loyalty and consumer preferences. A significant portion of the discussion revolves around agility in business. The speakers emphasize the importance of agility and iteration for startups, especially in a rapidly changing business environment. They argue that startups need to continuously adapt and pivot to find product-market fit. Finally, the episode touches on the evolving venture capital sector. The speakers note a shift towards more prudent investments, with a focus on milestones and accountability, contrasting it with the previous trend of freewheeling investments during periods of low interest rates.

Show Notes for Podcast Episode: Agile Coaching and Change Management with Pia Episode Title: Exploring Agile Coaching and Change Management in Europe Guest: Pia Wendelbo, CEO at Scandinavian Change Agents Company Hosts: Matt and Jeff Key Topics & Highlights: Pia's Background and Journey: More than 20 years of experience in innovation, product development strategy. Started in software, among the first in Denmark to build content management solutions for websites in the late 1980s. Early adoption of the internet for dynamic content and database integration. Evolution of Agile Coaching: Discusses the nuances of agile coaching in Europe, particularly in Scandinavia. Emphasizes the human aspect of digital transformations, focusing on individual and organizational levels. Highlights the need for empathy, understanding human decision-making, and accommodating change at a personal level. Obstacles in Organizational Change: Challenges of implementing change in organizations where people are resistant or not given enough space to adapt. Importance of creating an environment conducive to change, giving individuals the necessary space and removing obstacles. Discusses the misconceptions about people's resistance to change. Management and Leadership in Change: The role of management in facilitating change, especially in providing room for employees to adapt. The necessity of reevaluating organizational priorities and projects to accommodate new changes. Discusses the paradox of needing to slow down initially to achieve faster results in the long term. Agility and Flexibility in Organizations: The importance of agility and flexibility in adapting to changes and unexpected challenges. The concept of "smooth is slow and slow is fast" in managing change. How organizations often plan agile transformations in a rigid, predictive manner, missing the essence of agility. Employee Involvement and Empowerment: Advocates for high employee involvement in change initiatives. The importance of giving teams autonomy and encouraging team dynamics for effective change. Discusses how leaders can foster a culture of openness, trust, and psychological safety. Techniques for Change Management: Strategies for helping leaders understand the need for a slower, more deliberate approach to change. Use of scientific and strategic approaches to explain resistance and adaptation to change. The Human Aspect of Decision Making: Discusses the dual-process theory of the human brain (System 1 and System 2) in the context of organizational change. How understanding human behavior and decision-making can aid in managing change effectively. Leadership and Vulnerability: The role of leadership in acknowledging uncertainty and being open to learning. Encourages leaders to be curious and open-minded, involving themselves directly in team dynamics. Incentives and Organizational Culture: Discusses how traditional incentives may not always align with desired outcomes in change management. The shifting priorities and values of the workforce, especially among younger generations. Call to Action: Visit Pia's website: Scandinavian Change Agents Company Connect with Pia on LinkedIn for further insights on agile coaching and change management.

This week we take a break from talking about antipatterns and struggles in agile transformations, and instead focus on ways of confirming that you're heading in the right direction.  What are some of the leading indicators of success, and how do you use them to enable a thriving agile culture?  

This week, Matt, Mike, and Jeff debate the problem of rumor, inuendo and downright misinformation holding back your agile transformation.  They say perception is reality, but a steady intake of alternative facts isn't going to help anyone move forward in their journey!  Inspect and Adapt! YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@heresthisagilething/videos LibSyn: https://sites.libsyn.com/430539 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7uv11w9QB1bBSD3kUGeF55

In this episode we discuss the Agile Coaches Alliance. The Alliance is a group of Scrum Alliance certified coaches who observe and certify organizations and teams as agile. We explore the benefits of certification for organizations and coaches, as well as the potential controversies surrounding the subjectivity of the observation process and the misrepresentation of organizations claiming to be agile. They also discuss the possibility of expanding the Alliance to include coaches certified by other organizations. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the importance of a strong foundation in agile practices.

This week’s conversation is about the concept of mental models in agile development. A mental model is an individual's explanation of their thought process about how something works in the real world. It's a representation of the surrounding world, relationships between the various parts and a person's intuitive perceptions about their own acts and their consequences. Different individuals can have different mental models, and this can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunications. As Agile coaches, part of our job is to introduce new mental models and help individuals recognize the ones that are not conducive to what they're trying to achieve. It's important to remember that a mental model is not reality, but a representation of reality, and that the map is not the territory.   Links: Product Management Mental Models for Everyone | by Brandon Chu | The Black Box of Product Management (blackboxofpm.com)