Ralph Maria Jocham's Blog, page 15
January 19, 2024
3 signs that your product backlog is creating problems. Sign 3
Shining a Light on Product Backlogs: Sign 3 Illuminated
While diving deep into the nuances of product backlogs, I hit upon another vital sign that may indicate the health of your backlog. And you know what? It’s not just about what’s on it, but also about who’s crafting it. Intrigued? Let’s unravel it together.
Collaboration is Key
Imagine cooking a complex dish with a myriad of ingredients. Would you rely on just one person to decide on the flavor, texture, and presentation? Or would you bring in a team of chefs, each bringing their unique skills to the table?
A product backlog, much like that dish, shouldn’t be the brainchild of just one individual. It’s our collective vision of where we want our product to head. And if only one person is in the driver’s seat, we might miss out on some vital perspectives.
The Typical Sign
Having only one person creating and managing the backlog can lead to a narrow perspective. It’s like wearing blinkers. You see only what’s directly in front of you. By involving the whole team, you broaden your horizon and capture the full 360° view.
Engage, Engage, Engage!
As a Product Owner, it’s tempting to keep a tight grip on the backlog. But the magic happens when you open up and invite inputs. Not only do you garner diverse viewpoints, but you also foster ownership among team members. Remember what’s written in the Scrum Guide? While you may delegate work, the accountability is always yours. It’s all about striking that balance between leading and letting go.
In a Nutshell
A product backlog is a dynamic entity, evolving with our understanding of the product. By ensuring collective effort and inputs, we guarantee that it’s not just a list, but a living embodiment of our product vision.
And as always, keep the energy positive, keep the communication channels open, and watch your product soar to new heights. 
Ralph Jocham is a Change Agent in Scrum // Agile // Coaching // Evidence Based Management and also a Professional Scrum Trainer based in Europe.
As one of the first Professional Scrum Trainers in the world, Ralph has worked directly with cocreator of #scrum, Ken Schwaber, and has played an integral part in the course development of the #PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner) as well as the delivery of all #scrum.org certified courses.
If you’re looking to invest in training that transforms and empowers teams to successfully adopt #scrum or #agile, and create high-performance #productdevelopment environments leveraging the agile values and principles, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-scru...
If you would like to work with Ralph and company as an #agilecoach, #agileconsultant, or powerful change agent to get your team back on track and on the road to high-performance #agile #productdevelopment, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-tran...
For more great ‘how-to’ videos, blogs, and insights, subscribe to this channel and visit https://effectiveagile.com/blog/ for more valuable content.
#scrum #agile #scrumorg #scrumcertification #scrumcourses #scrumtraining #agilescrumtraining #agilekata #agility #businessagility #agileprojectmanagement #projectmanagement #productdevelopment #agileproductdevelopment #switzerland #germany #europe #scrumteam #scrumframework #professionalscrumtrainer #PST #certifiedscrumtrainer #certifiedscrumtraining
January 17, 2024
3 signs that your product backlog is creating problems. Sign 2
The Real Essence of a Product Backlog
You know, sometimes, amidst the chaos and complexity of product development, it’s easy to lose sight of what our tools are meant for. The product backlog is one such tool that, if misunderstood, can easily steer us off course. Let’s dive into the second sign that might indicate your product backlog needs a revamp. 
vs.
There’s a reason it’s called a product backlog and not a process backlog. It’s not about the ins and outs of how we work or the infrastructure we use. Nope, it’s all about those shining features and capabilities that will make our product stand out. 
What Often Happens:
I’ve noticed that it’s common to stumble upon “this is how we work” backlogs or even architectural backlogs. While these are essential in their own right, they shouldn’t hijack the product backlog.
The Ideal Mix:
Now, I’m not saying that items like architecture, infrastructure, or other behind-the-scenes tasks don’t belong. They do! But they should form the minority. Imagine your product backlog as a cocktail: the main ingredient should always be those delicious product-specific items, with just a dash of the rest.
A Handy Tip:
Always visualize the product backlog as the feature list of your product. When you add something to it, ask yourself, “Is this enhancing my product’s capabilities?” If the answer’s a resounding ‘Yes!’, it’s good to go.
Remember, like any tool, a product backlog is only as effective as the way we use it. Let’s commit to making it the guidebook to our product’s future, pointing us towards all the fantastic features we’re gearing up to release. Onward and upward!
Ralph Jocham is a Change Agent in Scrum // Agile // Coaching // Evidence Based Management and also a Professional Scrum Trainer based in Europe.
As one of the first Professional Scrum Trainers in the world, Ralph has worked directly with cocreator of #scrum, Ken Schwaber, and has played an integral part in the course development of the #PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner) as well as the delivery of all #scrum.org certified courses.
If you’re looking to invest in training that transforms and empowers teams to successfully adopt #scrum or #agile, and create high-performance #productdevelopment environments leveraging the agile values and principles, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-scru...
If you would like to work with Ralph and company as an #agilecoach, #agileconsultant, or powerful change agent to get your team back on track and on the road to high-performance #agile #productdevelopment, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-tran...
For more great ‘how-to’ videos, blogs, and insights, subscribe to this channel and visit https://effectiveagile.com/blog/ for more valuable content.
#scrum #agile #scrumorg #scrumcertification #scrumcourses #scrumtraining #agilescrumtraining #agilekata #agility #businessagility #agileprojectmanagement #projectmanagement #productdevelopment #agileproductdevelopment #switzerland #germany #europe #scrumteam #scrumframework #professionalscrumtrainer #PST #certifiedscrumtrainer #certifiedscrumtraining
January 16, 2024
How do you ensure that items in the product backlog are well understood?
The Key to Stellar Product Backlog Understanding
Did you know that items in the Product Backlog don’t necessarily have to be user stories? A common misconception! In fact, User stories hail from Extreme Programming and aren’t intrinsically tied to Scrum. What they can be, however, is a bucket for understanding, a different kind of story, or essentially any form of upcoming work. 
Not Just Stories, But Clarity
The true magic of a well-maintained backlog doesn’t lie in its format, but in its clarity. It’s vital to ensure each item is transparently understood. How do we achieve this crystal-clear understanding?
Engage in Discussions: Dive into the nitty-gritty of each feature. Encourage questions from every team member. “Could we approach it this way? How about considering this perspective?”
Incorporate Stakeholders: They play a pivotal role. Involve them, let them clarify, offer their unique insights, and detail their priorities.
Switching Roles: Typically, the Product Owner writes the product backlog items. But why not flip this script occasionally? Engage the developers and let them pen down what they deem essential. After all, if they can’t understand their own Product Backlog Items, it’s time for some introspection.
Empower Developers for Success
It’s imperative to ensure developers grasp the essence of their tasks. A comprehensive understanding not only empowers them but also sets the stage for success. A clear Product Backlog is a catalyst for a seamless, efficient, and goal-oriented sprint.
The takeaway?
Encourage a collective, participative approach. When developers draft their own backlog items, they’re invested in it. And if they don’t get it right, it’s a learning opportunity, not a blame game.
About Effective Agile
Ralph Jocham is a Change Agent in Scrum // Agile // Coaching // Evidence Based Management and also a Professional Scrum Trainer based in Europe.
As one of the first Professional Scrum Trainers in the world, Ralph has worked directly with cocreator of #scrum, Ken Schwaber, and has played an integral part in the course development of the #PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner) as well as the delivery of all #scrum.org certified courses.
If you’re looking to invest in training that transforms and empowers teams to successfully adopt #scrum or #agile, and create high-performance #productdevelopment environments leveraging the agile values and principles, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-scru...
If you would like to work with Ralph and company as an #agilecoach, #agileconsultant, or powerful change agent to get your team back on track and on the road to high-performance #agile #productdevelopment, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-tran...
For more great ‘how-to’ videos, blogs, and insights, subscribe to this channel and visit https://effectiveagile.com/blog/ for more valuable content.
#scrum #agile #scrumorg #scrumcertification #scrumcourses #scrumtraining #agilescrumtraining #agilekata #agility #businessagility #agileprojectmanagement #projectmanagement #productdevelopment #agileproductdevelopment #switzerland #germany #europe #scrumteam #scrumframework #professionalscrumtrainer #PST #certifiedscrumtrainer #certifiedscrumtraining
About Effective Agile
Ralph Jocham is a Change Agent in Scrum // Agile // Coaching // Evidence Based Management and also a Professional Scrum Trainer based in Europe.
As one of the first Professional Scrum Trainers in the world, Ralph has worked directly with cocreator of #scrum, Ken Schwaber, and has played an integral part in the course development of the #PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner) as well as the delivery of all #scrum.org certified courses.
If you’re looking to invest in training that transforms and empowers teams to successfully adopt #scrum or #agile, and create high-performance #productdevelopment environments leveraging the agile values and principles, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-scru...
If you would like to work with Ralph and company as an #agilecoach, #agileconsultant, or powerful change agent to get your team back on track and on the road to high-performance #agile #productdevelopment, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-tran...
For more great ‘how-to’ videos, blogs, and insights, subscribe to this channel and visit https://effectiveagile.com/blog/ for more valuable content.
#scrum #agile #scrumorg #scrumcertification #scrumcourses #scrumtraining #agilescrumtraining #agilekata #agility #businessagility #agileprojectmanagement #projectmanagement #productdevelopment #agileproductdevelopment #switzerland #germany #europe #scrumteam #scrumframework #professionalscrumtrainer #PST #certifiedscrumtrainer #certifiedscrumtraining
January 15, 2024
3 critical elements to good product backlog refinement
Mastering the Art of Product Backlog Refinement in Scrum
When it comes to Scrum, it’s not just about riding the agile waves but ensuring our ship is heading in the right direction. The heart of this journey? The Product Backlog. Today, we’re diving deep into the three critical elements of product backlog refinement, and trust me, you’ll want to take notes! 
First things first, folks, it’s all about the conversation. Imagine you’re setting sail, but everyone on board has a different destination in mind. Not the best way to chart a course, right? Similarly, in Scrum, everyone needs to share the same mental model.
By opening the lines of communication, you as a Product Owner ensure that the entire team understands the direction and the reasons behind it. What’s our mission? Who is it for? And most importantly, why?
Break it Down: Unveiling the Layers
Remember those days of LEGO constructions? Building a majestic castle, brick by brick? That’s what refinement is all about! 
Initially, you might find broad-strokes items in your backlog – a mere outline of the requirements. It’s your job to refine and break these down, uncovering the intricacies of each.
This step-by-step detailing not only aids understanding but also ensures every nook and cranny is covered. From mapping dependencies to driving out acceptance criteria, it’s a meticulous task ensuring that the end product is nothing short of perfection!
Consistency: The Ongoing Refinement Ritual
Refinement isn’t a once-in-a-blue-moon activity. Think of it as the daily scrubbing needed to keep a ship’s deck sparkling! 
While navigating the current sprint, always have an eye on the horizon. What’s next? Predict possible sprint goals and start breaking them down.
Here’s a pearl of wisdom: Don’t save refinement for just before the sprint planning.
Proactivity is the name of the game. Engage in weekly refinement sessions, get stakeholders on board, and facilitate regular dialogues between team members. And the golden number? Dedicate about 10% of each sprint to this refining magic.
Sailing Ahead with a Sharpened Vision
Product Backlog Refinement is so much more than mere task listing; it’s about building clarity, fostering communication, and ensuring everyone’s onboard (pun intended!). By mastering these three elements, not only will your Scrum journey be smoother, but you’ll also guarantee that you’re always sailing in the right direction!
Meta Description: Dive into the three must-know elements of Product Backlog Refinement in Scrum. Discover the power of unified vision, the art of breaking tasks down, and the importance of ongoing refinement for agile success!
About Effective Agile
Ralph Jocham is a Change Agent in Scrum // Agile // Coaching // Evidence Based Management and also a Professional Scrum Trainer based in Europe.
As one of the first Professional Scrum Trainers in the world, Ralph has worked directly with cocreator of #scrum, Ken Schwaber, and has played an integral part in the course development of the #PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner) as well as the delivery of all #scrum.org certified courses.
If you’re looking to invest in training that transforms and empowers teams to successfully adopt #scrum or #agile, and create high-performance #productdevelopment environments leveraging the agile values and principles, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-scru...
If you would like to work with Ralph and company as an #agilecoach, #agileconsultant, or powerful change agent to get your team back on track and on the road to high-performance #agile #productdevelopment, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-tran...
For more great ‘how-to’ videos, blogs, and insights, subscribe to this channel and visit https://effectiveagile.com/blog/ for more valuable content.
#scrum #agile #scrumorg #scrumcertification #scrumcourses #scrumtraining #agilescrumtraining #agilekata #agility #businessagility #agileprojectmanagement #projectmanagement #productdevelopment #agileproductdevelopment #switzerland #germany #europe #scrumteam #scrumframework #professionalscrumtrainer #PST #certifiedscrumtrainer #certifiedscrumtraining
January 2, 2024
East: Change behaviour and you change culture. West: Change culture and behaviour changes
Cultivating an Agile Culture: Behavioural Change for Organisational Growth
Cultivating an Agile culture is fundamentally about fostering behavioural change to drive organisational growth. This process involves more than merely adopting new processes or tools; it requires a fundamental shift in how people think, communicate, and interact within the workplace.
At the heart of this transformation is the understanding that culture is an emergent property, born out of the collective behaviours and mindset of the organisation. To nurture an Agile culture, leaders must focus on creating an environment that encourages openness, collaboration, and continuous learning.
This means moving beyond traditional hierarchical structures and empowering teams to take ownership of their work. It’s about valuing individuals and interactions over rigid processes, fostering a culture where failures are viewed as opportunities for growth and learning. By championing these behavioural changes, organisations can create a dynamic, responsive environment that not only adapts to change but thrives on it, leading to sustained growth and innovation.
This cultural shift doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a gradual process that requires commitment, patience, and a willingness to experiment and learn from both successes and setbacks.
The Heart of Agile Culture
Agile culture is more than a set of practices; it’s a mindset embedded in the behaviours and thinking of an organisation. This blog, drawing inspiration from Ralph’s expertise, explores how leadership and behavioural change are key to creating a truly Agile culture.
Agile Culture: Beyond Processes and Tools
In Agile, culture is not a direct target but an outcome of collective behaviours and thought processes. Understanding this is critical:
Internal Behaviours vs External Metrics: Building on Ken Wilber’s theory, the focus in Agile is on nurturing internal thought processes and behaviours, which are less tangible but more impactful than external metrics. Agile Manifesto’s Core: Emphasising individuals and interactions, the Agile Manifesto advocates a shift from rigid structures to fostering positive behavioural interactions.
Leadership’s Role: Creating Clarity and Trust 
Effective Agile leadership is anchored in two essential qualities:
Clarity: Articulating clear goals and visions, such as sprint objectives and product roadmaps, is crucial. This clarity helps teams understand their direction and purpose. Trust: Cultivating a safe and supportive environment enables team members to take initiative and make decisions that align with Agile values.
Step-by-Step Guide to Behavioural Transformation 
To instil an Agile culture, focus on shaping behaviours through these steps:
Define Agile Behaviours: Clearly outline the behaviours that reflect your Agile values. Communicate and Educate: Ensure everyone in the organisation understands these behaviours and their importance. Leadership as Role Models: Leaders should exemplify these behaviours, setting a standard for the team. Constructive Feedback: Regular feedback helps reinforce positive behaviours and address areas of improvement. Recognition and Celebration: Acknowledge and celebrate instances where team members exhibit desired Agile behaviours.
The Agile Culture Dichotomy: Intrinsic vs Extrinsic
Agile culture can develop in two ways:
Intrinsic Culture: Naturally evolving from appropriate behaviours and mindsets, intrinsic culture is sustainable and aligns with Agile principles. Extrinsic Culture: This is often created through enforced structures and behaviours, leading to compliance without genuine understanding or commitment.
Agile Kata: Focusing on Continuous Improvement
Agile Kata is about iterative improvement through focused behavioural changes:
Identify Small Improvements: Continuously look for incremental areas of improvement in daily practices. Set and Review Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals for these improvements and regularly review progress. Sustained Improvement: Each step contributes to the broader vision of cultivating an Agile culture.
Implementing Agile Kata in Organisations 
Applying Agile Kata effectively involves:
Spotting Opportunities: Look for specific, small areas where improvements can be made. Goal-Setting: Clearly define what success looks like for each improvement area. Routine Check-Ins: Conduct frequent retrospectives to assess progress and refine goals.
Real-World Case Study: Agile Transformation 
Consider a case study of a company’s Agile transformation:
Challenge: A traditional, process-heavy culture hindering innovation and collaboration. Approach: Implementing Agile Kata with a focus on small, behavioural changes. Result: Over time, the company experienced a shift towards a more collaborative and innovative culture, leading to enhanced productivity and employee satisfaction.
Conclusion: Embracing the Agile Journey
The journey to an Agile culture is ongoing and dynamic. It’s about consistently nurturing the right behaviours, mindsets, and leadership practices to evolve into an Agile way of working.
Key Takeaways:
Foster a mindset shift to influence behaviour positively. Prioritise intrinsic cultural development for lasting Agile adoption. 
Recognise and celebrate behavioural milestones in the Agile transformation journey.
About Effective Agile
Ralph Jocham is a Change Agent in Scrum // Agile // Coaching // Evidence Based Management and also a Professional Scrum Trainer based in Europe.
As one of the first Professional Scrum Trainers in the world, Ralph has worked directly with cocreator of #scrum, Ken Schwaber, and has played an integral part in the course development of the #PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner) as well as the delivery of all #scrum.org certified courses.
If you’re looking to invest in training that transforms and empowers teams to successfully adopt #scrum or #agile, and create high-performance #productdevelopment environments leveraging the agile values and principles, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-scru...
If you would like to work with Ralph and company as an #agilecoach, #agileconsultant, or powerful change agent to get your team back on track and on the road to high-performance #agile #productdevelopment, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-tran...
For more great ‘how-to’ videos, blogs, and insights, subscribe to this channel and visit https://effectiveagile.com/blog/ for more valuable content.
#scrum, #agile, #scrumorg #scrumcertification, #scrumcourses, #scrumtraining, #agilescrumtraining, #agilekata, #agility, #businessagility, #agileprojectmanagement, #projectmanagement, #productdevelopment, #agileproductdevelopment, #switzerland, #germany, #europe, #scrumteam, #scrumframework, #professionalscrumtrainer, #PST, #certifiedscrumtrainer, #certifiedscrumtraining,
December 31, 2023
How tough is it to become a PST? Do you need to prove yourself an expert in Scrum?
Navigating the Path to Becoming a Professional Scrum Trainer (PST) It’s a Rigorous Road 
Becoming a Professional Scrum Trainer (PST) is not a walk in the park. It’s a journey that demands a profound understanding and practice of Scrum. This blog delves into the intricacies of this path, offering guidance and ‘how-to’ advice for those aspiring to reach this esteemed position in the Scrum community.
Understanding the PST Process: More Than Just Rules 
The journey to becoming a PST is intensive, designed to assess not just your knowledge of Scrum but the depth of your understanding and application in real-world scenarios. It’s a process that tests your ability to navigate tough situations and make difficult decisions.
Key Elements of the PST Assessment:
Depth of Practice: Have you effectively applied Scrum principles in diverse situations? Problem-Solving Skills: Can you handle challenging scenarios with Scrum methodologies? Comprehensive Understanding: Do you grasp the underlying principles behind Scrum practices?
The ‘Not Yet’ Approach: Embracing Growth 
One of the most encouraging aspects of the PST journey is its ‘not yet’ philosophy. Rather than a flat rejection, it’s an opportunity to grow. The feedback provided is like homework; it points out areas for improvement and development.
Embracing Feedback:
Identify Weaknesses: Understand where you need to improve. Develop a Plan: Work on the areas highlighted by the feedback. Iterate and Improve: Continuously refine your skills and understanding.
The Timeline: A Commitment to Mastery
The path to becoming a PST can vary significantly in duration. For some, it may take six months, for others, a year, or even more. It’s a commitment that requires dedication, time, and a willingness to immerse oneself deeply in the world of Scrum.
Managing Expectations:
Patience is Key: Understand that this journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Continuous Learning: Keep updating your knowledge and skills in Scrum. Practical Experience: Seek diverse Scrum roles and projects to broaden your experience.
How to Prepare for the PST Journey: Practical Tips
Preparing for the PST journey requires more than just theoretical knowledge. Here are some practical tips to help you on your way:
Join Scrum Communities: Engage with other Scrum professionals and participate in discussions. Seek Mentorship: Find a current PST who can guide and provide insights into the process. Learn from Failures: Embrace every challenge as a learning opportunity. Document Your Journey: Keep a record of your experiences, reflections, and learnings.
Examples of Success: Learning from Others
Consider the stories of those who have successfully become PSTs. Each story is unique, but common themes include persistence, continuous learning, and the ability to apply Scrum principles in challenging scenarios.
The Rewards of Becoming a PST: Beyond Certification
Becoming a PST is more than just earning a title. It’s about:
Influencing Others: You become a mentor and guide for aspiring Scrum practitioners. Continual Growth: The process itself enriches your understanding and application of Scrum. Professional Recognition: It’s a testament to your dedication and expertise in the field of Scrum.
Conclusion: Your PST Odyssey Awaits
Embarking on the journey to becoming a Professional Scrum Trainer is a challenging yet fulfilling path. It’s a quest that tests your understanding, application, and dedication to the Scrum framework. Remember, it’s not about the speed of reaching the destination but the richness of the journey itself.
Emphasising ‘How-To’ Advice and Recommendations:
Be prepared for a long-term commitment. Actively seek feedback and use it constructively. Engage with the Scrum community for support and guidance.
About Effective Agile
Ralph Jocham is a Change Agent in Scrum // Agile // Coaching // Evidence Based Management and also a Professional Scrum Trainer based in Europe.
As one of the first Professional Scrum Trainers in the world, Ralph has worked directly with cocreator of #scrum, Ken Schwaber, and has played an integral part in the course development of the #PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner) as well as the delivery of all #scrum.org certified courses.
If you’re looking to invest in training that transforms and empowers teams to successfully adopt #scrum or #agile, and create high-performance #productdevelopment environments leveraging the agile values and principles, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-scru...
If you would like to work with Ralph and company as an #agilecoach, #agileconsultant, or powerful change agent to get your team back on track and on the road to high-performance #agile #productdevelopment, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-tran...
For more great ‘how-to’ videos, blogs, and insights, subscribe to this channel and visit https://effectiveagile.com/blog/ for more valuable content.
#scrum, #agile, #scrumorg #scrumcertification, #scrumcourses, #scrumtraining, #agilescrumtraining, #agilekata, #agility, #businessagility, #agileprojectmanagement, #projectmanagement, #productdevelopment, #agileproductdevelopment, #switzerland, #germany, #europe, #scrumteam, #scrumframework, #professionalscrumtrainer, #PST, #certifiedscrumtrainer, #certifiedscrumtraining,
December 29, 2023
Why were you drawn to Product Ownership?
The Crown of Product Ownership 
In the realm of Agile Scrum, the role of the Product Owner is often misinterpreted. It’s not about being the most crucial person on the team, but rather about the significance of the activities they perform. Imagine a scenario where you have the finest Scrum Master and the most skilled developers, but if the Product Owner isn’t aligned, you could end up crafting the wrong product with remarkable efficiency.
That’s where the concept of ‘value thinking’ comes into play.
Understanding Value in Scrum
Scrum is there to solve complex problems to maximise value. This opening line from the Scrum Guide encapsulates the essence of Product Ownership.
But what does ‘value’ really mean in this context?
It’s a multifaceted concept, intertwined with:
Customer Needs: Understanding and aligning with what the customer truly desires. Market Demand: Ensuring the product meets a tangible need in the market. Innovation: Pushing the boundaries of what’s possible to create unique solutions.
Measuring Value: More Than Just Numbers
Measurability is crucial in Scrum. But how do you measure something as abstract as value? It’s not just about hitting targets or achieving milestones; it’s about creating a significant impact.
Here are a few ways to approach this:
Feedback Loops: Regularly engage with customers and stakeholders to gather their insights. Market Response: Track how the market reacts to your product – are you solving a real problem? Team Dynamics: Observe the morale and productivity of your team; a motivated team often indicates a project with clear, valued goals.
The Protagonist with a Crown: A Symbol of Responsibility
In my training, I always depict the Product Owner with a crown. This isn’t to elevate their status but to symbolise the weight of responsibility they carry. They are the custodians of the product’s vision and its alignment with business objectives and user needs. Their decisions can significantly steer the course of the product development journey.
Bridging Brain Science and Complexity Theory
In the fascinating landscape of Product Ownership, elements like brain science and complexity theory play pivotal roles. They help us understand:
Human Behaviour: How users interact with products and what drives their decisions. Problem-Solving: Navigating through complex challenges and finding innovative solutions.
The Product Owner’s Toolkit: Strategies for Success
To excel as a Product Owner, consider adopting the following strategies:
Empathy Mapping: Understand your users deeply. What are their pains, gains, and needs? Prioritization Techniques: Use frameworks to prioritise features based on value and impact. Lean Experimentation: Test your hypotheses quickly and adapt based on feedback.
Case Studies: Real-World Examples of Value Maximisation
Let’s look at a few examples where Product Owners made a significant difference:
Example 1: A tech startup pivoted their product based on user feedback, leading to a 50% increase in user engagement. Example 2: A retail company’s Product Owner integrated customer suggestions into the product roadmap, resulting in a 30% rise in sales.
The Future of Product Ownership: Continual Learning and Adaptation
The landscape of Product Ownership is ever-evolving. As Product Owners, we must continue to learn, adapt, and stay abreast of the latest trends in technology, market demands, and customer behaviour.
Wearing the Crown Wisely 
In conclusion, the role of a Product Owner in Agile Scrum is a balancing act of understanding value, measuring impact, and continually adapting to the ever-changing business landscape. It’s about wearing that metaphorical crown with wisdom, responsibility, and a keen eye on what truly matters – delivering value that resonates with users and succeeds in the market.
About Effective Agile
Ralph Jocham is a Change Agent in Scrum // Agile // Coaching // Evidence Based Management and also a Professional Scrum Trainer based in Europe.
As one of the first Professional Scrum Trainers in the world, Ralph has worked directly with cocreator of #scrum, Ken Schwaber, and has played an integral part in the course development of the #PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner) as well as the delivery of all #scrum.org certified courses.
If you’re looking to invest in training that transforms and empowers teams to successfully adopt #scrum or #agile, and create high-performance #productdevelopment environments leveraging the agile values and principles, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-scru...
If you would like to work with Ralph and company as an #agilecoach, #agileconsultant, or powerful change agent to get your team back on track and on the road to high-performance #agile #productdevelopment, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-tran...
For more great ‘how-to’ videos, blogs, and insights, subscribe to this channel and visit https://effectiveagile.com/blog/ for more valuable content.
#scrum, #agile, #scrumorg #scrumcertification, #scrumcourses, #scrumtraining, #agilescrumtraining, #agilekata, #agility, #businessagility, #agileprojectmanagement, #projectmanagement, #productdevelopment, #agileproductdevelopment, #switzerland, #germany, #europe, #scrumteam, #scrumframework, #professionalscrumtrainer, #PST, #certifiedscrumtrainer, #certifiedscrumtraining,
Consensus is the Quickest Path to Mediocrity. True or False?
The pursuit of consensus has long been hailed as a cornerstone of decision-making and collaboration. After all, it seems intuitive that when a group of individuals can find common ground and agree on a course of action, it should lead to better outcomes. However, the assertion that consensus is the quickest path to mediocrity challenges this conventional wisdom. In this article, we will explore the arguments on both sides of the debate to determine whether consensus is, in fact, a hindrance or a help in achieving excellence.
So actually arriving at a consensus has two meanings. The one that we are concerned about surrounds basically finding an overall general agreement that everybody is happy with. This can be an attachment derived from observation and so we may get the consensus that our current government has issues in a particular area because we have observed it over a specific amount of time. We may even get the consensus that our current government has issues in specific areas since we observed it over a specific amount of time and have gathered a sufficient amount of evidence about the general agreement.
When I do think about how tricky it can be to reach a consensus, I think about the time there was conflict surrounding what color number plates should be. At first they wanted a brownish color but then the Flemish part of Belgium wanted to have red on white, and the French part wanted something different. So in the end they decided to rather just mix the two colors up to satisfy both sides.
On the other hand, if you think about the sociocratic approach, the way that we find an answer is important because there’s a chance for us to bring people on board to understand that what we are doing is a good thing. And it’s a little bit of a dicey situation and not necessarily the best approach of all time, but if you put a proper process behind that, then you really need to try to get as many people on board. Because at the end of the day, someone has to make the decision and I think this is where I really emphasize in my courses that we do not always have to be consensus driven. It is rather more important to be evidence driven.
The assertion that “Consensus is the quickest path to mediocrity” is a complex one that depends on various factors, including the context, the nature of the decision, and the individuals involved. While consensus can indeed lead to cautious and compromise-driven decisions, it is not inherently a road to mediocrity. The key lies in striking a balance. Consensus should not stifle creativity or boldness, but rather facilitate discussions that lead to well-considered decisions. It should encourage diverse perspectives while avoiding the trap of appeasement. When used judiciously, consensus can be a valuable tool for decision-making that promotes inclusivity, trust, and commitment.
Ultimately, the pursuit of excellence and the avoidance of mediocrity should not solely depend on the decision-making process but on the individuals involved and the culture of the organization. A group that values innovation and encourages open dialogue can use consensus as a means to achieve excellence, rather than settling for mediocrity.
If you want to learn more about embodying Agile Leadership as a Product Owner, get in touch with Ralph and he’ll lead the way!
About Effective Agile
Ralph Jocham is a Change Agent in Scrum // Agile // Coaching // Evidence Based Management and also a Professional Scrum Trainer based in Europe.
As one of the first Professional Scrum Trainers in the world, Ralph has worked directly with cocreator of #scrum, Ken Schwaber, and has played an integral part in the course development of the #PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner) as well as the delivery of all #scrum.org certified courses.
If you’re looking to invest in training that transforms and empowers teams to successfully adopt #scrum or #agile, and create high-performance #productdevelopment environments leveraging the agile values and principles, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-scru...
If you would like to work with Ralph and company as an #agilecoach, #agileconsultant, or powerful change agent to get your team back on track and on the road to high-performance #agile #productdevelopment, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-tran...
For more great ‘how-to’ videos, blogs, and insights, subscribe to this channel and visit https://effectiveagile.com/blog/ for more valuable content.
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December 28, 2023
3 Critical Steps to Crafting a Strong Product goal. Step 3
In the world of creating new products, setting clear and achievable goals is incredibly important for success. However, something that often gets missed is how important it is to have good evidence to support these goals. First, let’s start with a basic question: What are the specific numbers or measures we should be aiming for? This question is like our guiding star, showing us the way to our main objectives. But it’s not just about picking numbers; it’s also about figuring out in which direction those numbers should go.
So, let’s imagine that you set a goal to increase user engagement by 10 percent, but you’re only seeing an 8 percent improvement. The gap between where you want to be and where you are now is where evidence becomes really important. You need to examine what’s going on, find out what’s different, and figure out what actions will help you close that gap.
Start With the EvidenceEvidence isn’t just numbers; it can include things like feedback from users, research about the market, and trends in the industry. Evidence is like the glue that holds your plan together.
For instance, think about a situation where you want to make your online store better at turning visitors into customers. You might start by collecting evidence through things like talking to users and surveys to find out where things might be going wrong in their shopping experience. This information, combined with numbers like how many people click on your website and how many leave without buying anything, gives you a complete picture of how your product is doing.
What Are You Striving For?Once you’ve gathered this evidence, you need to define what success means for your Product Goal. This means setting clear goals and specific ways to measure them. For example, a successful Product Goal could be to increase the number of people who buy something on your website by 15 percent within six months, while also making sure that fewer people leave your website without buying anything.
But just having evidence and clear goals isn’t enough. You also need to take action based on what you learn. When you find differences between your goal and your current situation, you need to come up with plans for how to make things better. In the case of the online store, this might mean trying out different website designs, making the shopping process easier, or giving personalized suggestions to customers to encourage them to buy.
Observe and Then ActIn summary, setting a strong product goal involves gathering and using evidence wisely. It’s about setting clear targets and figuring out what steps you need to take to reach them. Making decisions based on evidence helps you make smart choices, identify differences, and create a plan for success. By using evidence effectively, you can move forward in the world of product development with confidence and precision, making sure that your product goals are not just dreams but real achievements.
If you are interested in learning more about how to craft a strong Product Goal, get in touch with Ralph today!
About Effective Agile
Ralph Jocham is a Change Agent in Scrum // Agile // Coaching // Evidence Based Management and also a Professional Scrum Trainer based in Europe.
As one of the first Professional Scrum Trainers in the world, Ralph has worked directly with cocreator of #scrum, Ken Schwaber, and has played an integral part in the course development of the #PSPO (Professional Scrum Product Owner) as well as the delivery of all #scrum.org certified courses.
If you’re looking to invest in training that transforms and empowers teams to successfully adopt #scrum or #agile, and create high-performance #productdevelopment environments leveraging the agile values and principles, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-scrum-trainings/
If you would like to work with Ralph and company as an #agilecoach, #agileconsultant, or powerful change agent to get your team back on track and on the road to high-performance #agile #productdevelopment, visit https://effectiveagile.com/agile-transformation/
For more great ‘how-to’ videos, blogs, and insights, subscribe to this channel and visit https://effectiveagile.com/blog/ for more valuable content.
#scrum #agile #scrumorg #scrumcertification #scrumcourses #scrumtraining #agilescrumtraining #agilekata #agility #businessagility #agileprojectmanagement #projectmanagement #productdevelopment #agileproductdevelopment #switzerland #germany #europe #scrumteam #scrumframework #professionalscrumtrainer #PST #certifiedscrumtrainer #certifiedscrumtraining
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