A reflection on my agile journey.
Stage 1: The Ordinary World
Doing what we’ve always done.
Stage 2: The Call to Adventure
The feeling that there must be a better way.
Stage 3: Refusal of the Call
There are many reasons to turn back:
- Uncertainty and self-doubt.
- Fear of change.
- Too busy chopping down trees to take the time to sharpen the axe.
- Lack of support.
Stage 4: Meeting the Mentor
Seeing that other people have taken this journey before you, and taking inspiration from them.
Stage 5: Crossing the First Threshold
Formally adopting Lean / Agile. Often involves adopting a framework such as Scrum.
You may have to defeat the threshold guardians, e.g. colleagues who are resistant to change, managers etc.
Stage 6: Tests, Allies and Enemies
Making changes within your team to make Lean / Agile work for you.
Stage 7: Approach To The Inmost Cave
A sense of foreboding. An inkling that you’ve missed something important. A feeling that Lean / Agile is flawed, or that you’re doing it wrong, or it has been over-sold.
Stage 8: Ordeal
Facing up to the fact that Lean / Agile hasn’t lived up to its promise.
Stage 9: Reward
A deeper understanding of Lean / Agile; not just its practices, but its deeper principles.
Stage 10: The Road Back
Adopting a Lean / Agile mind-set.
Stage 11: Resurrection
A complete re-evaluation of what you’re doing from your new vantage point. A new enthusiasm and energy. Addressing long-standing issues.
Stage 12: Return with the Elixir
Encouraging others to take the Lean / Agile journey for themselves.