How to launch an Agile Transformation with no Framework by doing this

Summary

Dawn Nicole, an agile coach and independent consultant, explains her framework-agnostic approach to agile transformation. Emphasizing results over specific frameworks, she introduces the 'SOLID' method, a five-phase strategy for organizational change. This method includes starting with goals, observing current practices, launching agile practices, inspecting progress, and developing sustainable capabilities. Nicole's real-world experience and focus on collaboration make her approach adaptable and effective for various agile transformations.

Takeaways

• 😀 Dawn Nicole is an agile coach and independent consultant who advocates for being framework agnostic to provide the best solution for clients.
• 🔍 She emphasizes the importance of not focusing solely on the framework but rather on the transformative outcome and result.
• 🛠 Dawn has developed a five-phase transformative change approach called 'SOLID' which she uses and teaches to organizations and consultants.
• 🎯 The 'SOLID' acronym stands for Starting and Setting Goals, Observation and Evaluation, Learning and Going Live, Inspection and Adaptation, and Developing Capabilities.
• 👉 Starting and Setting Goals involves understanding why agile is the right approach and what it means for the organization.
• 🔎 Observation and Evaluation is about understanding the current state of the organization through observation, interviews, and discovery questions.
• 🚀 Learning and Going Live focuses on launching agile teams, training, and initiating agile ways of working with a focus on momentum.
• 🔍 Inspection and Adaptation involves evaluating the program, team maturity, and customer satisfaction to ensure the transformation is on track.
• 🛡 Developing Capabilities is about ensuring the sustainability of the transformation by building the skills and capabilities of the team to continue after the consultant's departure.
• 🤝 Dawn believes in a collaborative approach with organizations to build a unique framework tailored to their needs.
• 🌟 She invites feedback and discussion on the topic, showing her commitment to real-world advice and practical application.

Q & A

What is the main focus of Dawn Nicole's approach to agile coaching and consulting?

Dawn Nicole's approach focuses on being framework agnostic, which means she does not strictly adhere to a specific agile framework but rather tailors solutions based on the client's needs and goals.

Why is Dawn Nicole framework agnostic?

Dawn Nicole is framework agnostic to provide the best solution by borrowing and leveraging pieces from various frameworks, emphasizing results and transformative outcomes over the framework itself.

What does Dawn Nicole mean by 'framework agnostic'?

Being 'framework agnostic' means not being tied to a specific agile framework but being flexible and adaptable to use elements from different frameworks to meet the unique needs of the client.

What is the acronym 'SOLID' and how does it relate to Dawn Nicole's approach?

SOLID is an acronym representing five phases of transformative change: Starting and Setting Goals (S), Observation and Evaluation (O), Learning and Going Live (L), Inspect and Adapt (I), and Developing Capabilities (D). It is a technique Dawn Nicole uses to guide agile transformations.

What are the five phases of transformative change that Dawn Nicole mentions?

The five phases are: Starting and Setting Goals, Observation and Evaluation, Learning and Going Live, Inspect and Adapt, and Developing Capabilities.

What is the purpose of the 'Starting and Setting Goals' phase in the SOLID framework?

This phase involves understanding why agile is the right approach for the organization and setting clear goals for the transformation, which could be large-scale or small-scale.

What does the 'Observation and Evaluation' phase involve?

In this phase, Dawn Nicole advises observing the current state of the organization, including meetings, demand management, and how new work is taken in, to inform a customized transformation strategy.

What are the key focuses of the 'Learning and Going Live' phase?

This phase includes kicking off agile teams training, launching agile ways of working, and conducting Sprint zero activities to prepare for agile sprinting.

What is the importance of the 'Inspect and Adapt' phase?

This phase is crucial for evaluating the program's progress, team maturity, and customer satisfaction. It helps in making necessary adjustments to ensure the transformation is on track and meeting expectations.

How does the 'Developing Capabilities' phase ensure sustainability of the transformation?

This phase focuses on building the capabilities of scrum masters, product owners, and agile leaders to sustain the transformation after the consultant leaves, through mentoring systems, guilds, and establishing a playbook.

What is Dawn Nicole's advice for consultants and organizations looking to move to Agile?

Dawn Nicole advises being collaborative and building a unique framework tailored to the organization's needs, rather than strictly following a specific agile framework.