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Overview
Overview
Having an Agile mindset means more than just going through the motions of doing Agile; you need to innovate, experiment and challenge yourself and others to continuously improve.
Introduction
Introduction
An Agile mindset can be hard to define and no one really agrees on one definition - but we’re going to have a go at defining what we think it means (at Holiday Extras at least). What everyone does agree on is that it is a mindset, not a framework or tool. You can “do Agile” without “being Agile”, and vice versa.
What Does Having an Agile Mindset Mean?
What Does Having an Agile Mindset Mean?
At the most in-depth level, it means adhering to the core Agile Manifesto and Principles.
However more simply, we see having an Agile mindset as:
- Breaking tasks down to reduce complexity and risk
- Constantly trying to improve by learning through both success and failure
- Great relationships within and between teams
- Being solutions-focused when faced with a challenge
- Having transparency and autonomy
- Leaders encouraging others to lead rather than dictating
- Having trust in each other
- Being open to trying new things, and listening to others
Doing Agile vs Being Agile
Doing Agile vs Being Agile
Many teams we work with have never heard of it and yet a lot of the processes and ideas they have already are Agile, just not in name. On the flip side, other teams are Agile in name only.
Doing here means simply adopting the meetings and ceremonies without committing to the values of Agile. Being however shows that you’re constantly innovating, experimenting and challenging yourself and others to continuously improve.
How can you transition from doing to being?
How can you transition from doing to being?
If you think there are areas your team can improve on, why not try creating a Team Charter to create an agreement between you of the kind of mindset you want to have, what’s acceptable and what should be discussed and challenged. The quickest way to change from “doing” to “being” is through strong feedback loops and making sure you make changes off the back of that feedback and any retrospective actions you make.
Summary
Summary
If you’re part of a team or organisation that is Agile in name only, challenge yourself to see what you can improve or change in the way you think and then try and bring others on the way. Pause occasionally and make sure you’re always approaching things with an Agile Mindset.
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