On the blog “Fragile” the author writes about the human side of Agile. The author, who is not named anywhere on the blog, criticizes the agile movement for not giving more time to the issue around management.
Here are some of the key arguments:
- not enough care is taken over the distinction between project and line management
- almost all agile implementation failures could be traced back to management’s reluctance or failure to engage
- practical guidance is needed for an agile team leader to describe how they might incorporate these ideas into their role.
The author also notes that an anecdote they wrote was included in a recent book. It basically describes a way to make the most of an environment even if management is not providing funding or space to support agile implementation.
Here is the anecdote:
It may not always be possible to create the perfect working environment, however it is important to make the most of what is available. My team were looking to map their workflow using a whiteboard and sticky notes. Unfortunately we were situated in the middle of an open plan office without access to walls, nor did we have the necessary space for a for a free standing whiteboard. In the end we bought a roll of whiteboard sheeting and applied it to a nearby structural pillar. Work items flowed from top to bottom and space was tight, but it served our purpose and is still in use years later.
by Rachel Perry
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