SUPERIORITY OF SELF-ORGANISED TEAMS
In the agile methodology, the principle of self-organised teams is crucial for minimizing dependencies and boosting efficiency. A self-organised team makes its own decisions on how to achieve the set objectives, without constantly relying on external approvals or hierarchical constraints. This significantly reduces inter-team dependencies, which are often major obstacles to smooth and rapid development.
Limiting Dependencies Through Self-Organisation
Dependencies typically arise when one team has to wait for or closely collaborate with another to make progress. These interdependencies can slow down deliveries, introduce risk of errors, and complicate communication. A self-organised team, however, manages its own backlog and possesses the necessary skills internally to meet its needs without constantly involving other teams. By reducing points of contact with external teams, self-organised teams can:
- Gain autonomy and faster decision-making.
- Reduce waiting cycles due to dependencies.
- Maintain clear alignment on their objectives with enhanced focus.
Dedicated Team vs Shared Team
A dedicated team, focusing solely on one project or product, is far more effective than a team that is split between multiple initiatives. Members of a shared team have to juggle competing priorities, leading to constant interruptions, reduced focus, and lower productivity. On the other hand, a dedicated team benefits from:
- Increased focus: Members work together on the same goals, which improves their ability to deliver quickly.
- Better cohesion: Working as a dedicated team strengthens collaboration and fosters a sense of belonging.
- Targeted expertise: By specializing in a specific domain or product, the team gains in-depth knowledge that maximizes both efficiency and the quality of deliverables.
In short, self-organisation and the formation of dedicated teams are two fundamental pillars of agility. They allow for the minimization of dependencies, enhance responsiveness, and create an environment conducive to innovation and sustained performance.