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10 Things You Can Do to Develop a Lean Agile Mindset

Updated: Mar 11, 2019

What is a Lean Agile Mindset? If the concept of Lean and Agile is a combination of business adaptability, resourcefulness, and process improvement, then take that same approach with the way we think about our work and about how we deliver value. Here are some things that you can do and will explain how to build a Lean Agile Mindset.


1. Positive attitude


Like anything else attitude is everything. It is especially important when trying to change behaviors. In an environment with changing deadlines, developing technologies, and is constantly evolving, it is important to focus on the quick wins, small victories, and maintain a positive attitude. Look at each new situation as a challenge to excel, not an obstacle to overcome.


2. Thirst for knowledge


In a world of constantly developing technology, and new approaches to the ways that businesses are changing, a desire to learn and then apply that knowledge is essential. Creating time and space for innovation drives amazing results!


3. Goal of team success


Who doesn’t want their team to succeed? Being team oriented is important, but more to be team driven. It is crucial that everybody chips in and help is provided where it’s needed.


4. Pragmatism


Lean and Agile is a journey. Identify where you are today on that journey and create achievable goals to elevate lean agile behaviors. We need to be realistic about what the organization can change and what teams can achieve. We can still realize benefits by taking small steps to improve the process.


5. Willingness to fail


With project development, some mistakes and failures are going to be inevitable. What’s important is not to let that failure prevent you and your team from resolving the issue, or maybe even trying all over again if the situation calls for it.


6. Experiment


Run tests, repeatedly. This way, when problems do arise, your team will be more prepared to handle them in a more expedient and efficient manner which in turn will boosts a client’s satisfaction.


7. Respect for people


While working with teams, we are constantly interacting with people. In this environment, developing a mutual respect for each other is crucial. That means respect the needs of your team members, respect the wishes of your customer, and respect yourself. Empathize with these key people and you will deliver better products that end with customer delight.


8. Flow


Adopt the principle of continuous flow of work. Visualize the work to identify constraints. Minimize your work in process, so you can focus on getting things to the “Done” pile quicker. Always look for ways to save time and do things more efficiently.


9. Self-Managed Teams


Start thinking about autonomy and self-managed teams. Encourage your teams to “pull” work when ready. Move away from having Managers tell people what to do. Encourage, enable, and support your teams, but let them decide how to get the work done. Coach them to success!


10. Transparency


We should be transparent about the work that needs to be done as well as the work in progress. Hiding behind 5,000-line project plans is not transparent. Make your work visible. Share information with key stakeholders. The more we share, the better the information exchange. We can reduce crossed communications, and have smoother hand-offs when information is transparent.



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