This posting is going to seem familiar to many people reading this.
If it does not seem familiar, ask yourself “why” have I not had this conversation yet. And by “I” — I mean “you” (I am getting into your head again).
The last posting discussed the implications of calling Agile the same thing as Scrum and well, we learned that really it is not the same thing.
Think about it.
Thanks again for reading the postings from implementingscrum.com.
I write (and talk) so much about Scrum helping to start some of the most difficult conversations.
People disagree with me, and that is OK.
I am still standing by this statement and want to really help others figure out *how* we have these conversations.
I work in the real world right along with you, albeit it probably in a different capacity (which can be helpful — remember I am usually an “outsider” in your world).
It IS this capacity that allows me the opportunity to have some of the difficult conversations that for some (you??) would lead to a “Career Limiting Move” — i.e. you could get fired.
So.
Do NOT do — or SAY — anything silly enough to get you fired (unlike some consultants I really do not take it as a badge of honor getting my ass kicked out of any team or organization by pissing people off).
You can think anything you want… just really THINK before talking!
How do I (back to me… not you!) avoid this?
Sometimes I can’t (I am still licking my wounds over being taken out back and shot many years ago).
And.
Here is how I try to avoid this.
It is NOT by avoiding the tough conversations.
In fact, it is now all about STARTING with a tough conversation before I even accept an engagement with a person on a team in an organization (no matter how big or small).
Why do this?
Because if I do not… chances are you (or the person who wants to start “Doing Agile” in your team or organization) will avoid this Elephant in the Room.
So I do not avoid it.
I have to have it.
Must.
It is a strong word. It is tough.
So what.
It is for the sanity of everyone involved.
Bottom line…
Scrum is all about prioritization.
And wow…
Think about this…
This posting is probably bringing up some tough conversations you need to start having in your mind today.
Well… the thoughts should be there… in your mind (smile).
So what are they?
Next posting…
What is this prioritization conversation…
Who is it with…
And…
What is the purpose?
Until then… let me know what you are thinking needs to be said.
And.
To who?
And Why?
Ready?
Me neither. But it needs to be done.
Think about it.
It is probably one of the most important conversations to start BEFORE beginning your journey using Scrum and or Agile or whatever you want to call it.
I’ll describe the conversation and then… well… we will see together what comes after that.
Have an incredible day (or week… month… or even year!).
