Trust is a crucial element for the smooth running of agile processes. This starts with good communication, another quality essential to the success of development teams. Advice from Maria DiCesare, marketing editor at Mendix, platform specialized in business applications, world leader in low-code development.
The so-called agile methodology is characterized by tight deadlines and close intervals. When an organization decides to opt for an agile mode of operation after having evolved for years in a restrictive framework, corporate culture must be questioned in its entirety. Changing mentalities is not easy and many challenges must be met. However, if we look at the return on investment, the game is clearly worth it. Indeed, with agile development methodology, it is possible to make a product available and quickly produce an impact (in a few weeks or months, instead of several years or decades). The best way to deal with tight deadlines and a multitude of stakeholders is to establish effective communication. Mendix offers five recommendations to improve communication and build trust within an agile team.
Define roles and objectives from the start
Lots of communication errors happen at the very beginning. Each project must therefore have a kick-off (startup) clair, with well-defined roles and objectives. During this launch phase, it is important to discuss the different roles and expectations, both to and from team members. You need an overview of the processes. The kick-off should serve as a guide to the team, but should not be rigid or set in stone. Changes are bound to happen, the team must be flexible to be able to adapt.
Encourage questions
Teams should be encouraged to ask questions, never ignore the slightest question, and not let anyone feel uncomfortable about asking one. The questions help clarify certain points, to make discoveries, and sometimes to improve processes. It is therefore important to encourage teams to ask a question and seek clarification. Don't forget : it's okay to not have the answers and find them over time.
Make mistakes
Those who have never worked using an agile method or are familiar with development tools will inevitably make mistakes. Error should be encouraged and openly addressed, especially at the start of a project. It forces us to learn and improve. However, many are afraid of making mistakes. I have even seen teams hide them hoping that no one will notice them.. Or, in terms of agile development, small errors that can be corrected in a few minutes or a day can take on gigantic proportions and extend delivery times by several weeks or months. Whatever we do, it is essential not to sweep anything under the rug. Error management can be an excellent opportunity to unite a team. Error should be encouraged and openly addressed, especially at the start of a project.
Retrospectives
Retrospective meetings are essential for opening new communication channels. During this type of assemblies, teams can take stock by highlighting not only what was a failure, but also the successes. The goal is to be productive and not spend your time pointing fingers at colleagues or complaining. We must look for solutions and suggestions to progress, and apply them regularly. Even after a successful sprint, it is important to carry out a debriefing with all the teams as part of agile ceremonies.
Returns
Feedback is the most valuable thing in agile development. Therefore, the first thing to do is to quickly provide it to all stakeholders. If a point was well managed, positive feedback must be provided to the employees concerned, by highlighting the impact of their work. If a deadline has been exceeded, it is crucial to ask why, and propose solutions to avoid seeing this problem repeat itself in the future. If these comments are intended to explain to a teammate how to improve, clarity is essential. Feedback will not have the same effect on everyone, However, they are essential to progress. You should therefore not be afraid to offer or receive them.. The best way to deal with tight deadlines and a multitude of stakeholders is to establish effective communication.
