A Journey: From Project Manager to ScrumMaster
In the beginning I was a coder. Then, suddenly one day, I found myself a Project Manager. Our PM had left unexpectedly and the call went out for a temporary replacement. I was the last one to bolt for the door, and so there I was: temporary Projec...
Agile Requirements Definition and Management
One of the myths of Agile software development is that documentation is not required or useful. It is true that one of the core values within the Agile Manifesto is "Working Software over Comprehensive Documentation." However, note the word "over"...
How to Be an Effective ScrumMaster
Several weeks ago, I joined an online discussion about the key skills of an effective ScrumMaster. Everybody actively shared their experiences and thoughts. But I strongly felt that we were talking about the definition of a good ScrumMaster, not an effective one, which was the original topic.
This made me recall an experience I had last year. I'd joined a new project that was outsourced, and...
Failure IS an Option
This is an article asking you to fail. More precisely: Fail now for greater success later.
One of the five Scrum values is courage. Courage to point out problems, ask for help, receive help, and — most important — take risks even thou...
Coaching Agile Teams
Two words, Agile and coaching, seem to be the most-used buzzwords (after brain and neuro) of the last five years or so. The way things are progressing, I see them staying at the top of the list for decades.
Dealing with Negative Persuasion: Can the Product Owner Lead to Quality Destruction?
Quality: It's one of the common commercial arguments made when offering a software product. Those who have already mature products in the market justify their careers by emphasizing quality. Other companies, perhaps with more innovative products o...
Budgeting a Scrum Project in a Fluid Environment
Agile, and Scrum in particular, are buzzwords. Everyone wants to try out Scrum and reap its benefits. Clients (especially business clients) see a big advantage in not having to wait till all the requirements are carved in stone before starting a p...