People Think Being Agile Is About Speed When It Is More Than That
The Real Value of Agile Transformation: It’s Not Just About Speed
One of the biggest misconceptions about agile transformation is that it’s all about going faster. People often assume that increasing the number of releases or speeding up delivery is the primary goal. But in reality, speed is just a by-product—not the endgame. Agile is about so much more, and I have a very personal, non-technical example to illustrate this.
Agile Beyond Software: A Personal Journey
We often hear stories about agile making waves outside of software—marketing teams, HR departments, even martial arts clubs adopting agile principles to outpace the competition. However, I’ve recently experienced firsthand how agile thinking can transform an environment you might never expect: the world of medical treatment.
Here’s some background. I have a genetic disorder called Crouzon’s Syndrome, which affects facial growth and can lead to additional complications. The primary corrective surgery is called a Lefort 3 displacement, essentially moving the midface upward to achieve proper alignment. There are two ways to do this:
Option 1:
- One long surgery to move everything at once (the approach I had almost 40 years ago).
- Everything is set in a single procedure.
- High probability of needing a second surgery due to bone recession (which happened to me).
- Requires metal plates and screws to hold things together.
- Jaw is wired shut for 5–6 weeks, delaying normal eating and requiring muscle reconditioning.
Option 2:
- A gradual adjustment using a “halo” device to slowly move the bones forward (the approach my eldest just underwent).
- No metal plates or screws needed.
- Weekly, incremental adjustments to ensure everything stays on track.
- Faster recovery: back to everyday life in 3 months instead of 6.
- Much lower risk of needing a second surgery.
Iteration, Feedback, and Value
As we went through my son’s surgery, the team used weekly check-ins and adjustments to ensure everything was progressing as planned. When they noticed things weren’t quite right, they made minor tweaks and quickly got things back on track. The result? Dramatic improvements and a smoother recovery.
This experience is a perfect example of agile in action. The “fast” option I had decades ago seemed efficient, but it led to rework and setbacks. The “slower” approach for my son, with regular feedback and incremental progress, is delivering better results the first time around—saving time, effort, and stress in the long run.
The Real Value: Getting It Right, Not Just Getting It Done
What’s the actual value here?
- Minimal rework: The gradual approach drastically reduces the likelihood of a second surgery.
- Faster return to everyday life: Three months instead of half a year.
- Better alignment with expectations: Everyone involved—patients, family, and doctors—feels more confident and satisfied with the process.
The Takeaway
Agile transformation isn’t about cranking out work faster for the sake of speed. It’s about delivering value, adapting to feedback, and getting things right the first time—even if it means taking the time to do so. Whether in software, business, or healthcare, the agile mindset is about learning, adjusting, and creating outcomes that matter.
Curious how an agile approach could help your team deliver more value, with less rework and stress?
Book a call at jberriault@berriaultandassociates.com, and let’s explore how agile principles can transform your results, no matter your industry.
Book a call at jberriault@berriaultandassociates.com, and let’s explore how agile principles can transform your results, no matter your industry.
"I help create ecosystems that become legacies.”
- Jeremy Berriault
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