Part 2: Agile Transformation How is it done ?

 

Last month we discussed about what is Agile Transformation and Why is it necessary. That was part.1 of our 2 part article. In this article we will focus on:-

 

How is it done ?

Agile transformation is best done in stages that are well thought out systematically and iteratively to optimise the returns of being agile. The stages are as per the diagram below

 

 

 

 

Creating and communicating a sense of urgency

For any transformation to take place, a sense of urgency for the need for transformation is required. In this regard, a suitable Call to Action that is concise and relevant has to be developed and communicated. By doing so in a manner that resonates with all stakeholders a sense of urgency will emerge. Being guided by this sense of urgency everyone remains committed to the purpose being pursued.

 

Developing an awareness of Agile

For agile practices to be undertaken correctly based on agile principles, the need to develop an awareness of what it entails and how it should be done based on best practices is needed. This could be done through a series of workshop or coaching and mentoring sessions that inculcate a desire to enable faster product delivery and boost efficiency through iterative feedback.

The awareness should focus on how being agile helps everyone work better so that a deep seated desire to embrace agile principles and practices emerges

 

Identifying relevant metrics based on a customised approach

The success of any agile initiative rests on its ability to deliver results in a manner that is customised to the existing way of working. The agile methodology needs to be customised to suit the most appropriate way of working (WoW) based on the organizations culture. The need for this is important when it is necessary to customise the approach to achieve specific goals such as promoting cost reduction or enhancing operational productivity

 

These results are based on the measures ( metrics ) of what constitutes success. For example, if the goal is to reduce cost, what cost elements have to be monitored ( e.g. labour hours, time to completion) and how will they be monitored ( e.g. remotely by a third party based on predetermined parameters) , will have to be determined.

 

Developing Quick Wins and Scaling Agile Practices

The setting up and operationalisation of a number of pilot projects will have to be undertaken based on the customised approach established. They will be undertaken in iterations aimed at achieving specific goals within specific timelines. The deliverables from these iterations will be the “quick wins” that are necessary to sustain the practices being undertaken.

 

Over time the agile practices adopted in a project team or department will have to be gradually introduced throughout the organization. Only then a collaborative culture is developed. In this regard, the agile practices will have to be scaled up.

 

Scalability of agile practices throughout the Organization will entail overcoming potential challenges. These challenges will have to be identified and migration plans to develop with the challenges identified and implemented. A framework for scaling the agile practices will be established to address these challenges.

 

 

Engaging  in Continual Improvement

Over time, the desire to continually improve becomes a norm. Everyone is seeking to do better what they have already done before. Challenging the status quo becomes a norm at all levels of the organization.

 

Continual improvements of the system will be undertaken on a regular basis to sustain agile practices in order to gradually develop a collaborative work culture within the organization. Such a work culture will manifest as the required ecosystem needed to facilitate further enhancements in being undertaken.

 

This process of reinventing itself continues unabated as the organization morphs into a learning organization that subscribes to the notion of agility as a way of life. This process of seeking perfection is a worthwhile journey all organizations should embark on.

 

Dr Rumesh Kumar

PMP, PMP Trainer,

Scrum Certified Trainer

PMI - Agile Certified Practitioner

Scrum Master Certified, Scrum Product Owner Certified, Scrum Developer Certified

Sharma Management International