In the previous two posts I have discussed what Agile is, its values and the principles of Agile methodologies:
But these may not be sufficient reasons for companies to adopt these methodologies. Agile emerged around technology teams, but these methodologies do not limit their scope to this area. The main reason why companies are turning to the adoption of Agile as a work methodology is because Agile is synonymous with Business.
Today’s market is volatile and rapidly changing. We are at a time when the model of a large company making a product and then looking for customers to sell it to is practically obsolete. The metaphor of the big fish eating the little fish applies less and less. Now the fast fish eats the slow fish.
big fish eat little fish” no longer applies. Now the fast fish eats the slow fish
The use of Agile methodologies offers a competitive advantage. Agile can allow us to earn more money, be more referential and even lead the industry.
What are the advantages of Agile?
Agile offers a number of advantages from the point of view of business results, compared to other methodologies:
- Accelerate product delivery. Reduce time to market.
- Adapt better to the changing environment. To be able to offer the right solution at the right time.
- Improve the ability to manage changing priorities.
- Improve productivity. Maximizing the delivery of value, not the number of products/functionalities.
- To be able to be the market leader. As a combination of the different factors mentioned above.
- Improve predictability of deliveries
- Reducing project risks
- Improving the capacity to innovate
- Attracting or retaining talent and knowledge
Attracting talent
Another dimension that influences business results, although not directly, is that Agile methodologies consider workers as a fundamental part of the company, their work matters. Agile teams are self-organized teams where their members can exploit their potential, as they are empowered individuals.
“The widespread lack of motivation in organizations is due to the unequal distribution of power
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In the knowledge era, the technology market has a low unemployment rate. Many knowledgeable and talented professionals have no problem changing jobs. Salary is no longer the only motivator they may have. Agile methodologies should serve to create environments where the employee is valued, empowered and cared for, thus making these work environments more attractive. This can help retain talent and attract talent.
One of the aspects most frequently discussed with team leaders and people belonging to the People/Talent (HR) department, is how to motivate workers, colleagues or team members. The issue of employee motivation and involvement is a topic that I would like to address in some of the next posts.
Do you need more reasons?
These are all advantages that can be expected from a proper adoption of Agile methodologies. In my humble opinion, it is much easier said than done, as the benefits are not immediate. The great challenge that companies face is the adoption / transformation itself, since it means much more than a simple framework or tools, it means a new work paradigm.
