Are your self-organizing Agile software development teams all that they could be? If not, it might be because your managers aren’t supporting the teams as much as they should. As a director of a Program Management Office I’ve seen the negative effects of teams being left to fend for themselves, and of managers being relegated to simple impediment removers. Conversely, I’ve witnessed the benefits when teams are empowered to organize effectively with the appropriate support, processes, tools, and skills. After reading Succeeding with Agile Teams, you will understand the historical and theoretical foundations of self-organization, and will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to help your teams become highly performing. You will know to:
Create clear direction and empowerment for your teams, and then hold them accountable.
Define a meaningful role for your managers, which supports and augments self-organization.
Teach fundamental teamwork and interpersonal skills.