Hello, fellow agilists,
I trust this message finds you in good spirits as we continue our journey in the world of agility. Having just returned from Agile 2023, I wanted to share some thoughts and insights from the event. Let’s dive right in and discuss some key takeaways from the conference.
The five-day event was an enriching experience, offering a platform to engage with incredible minds who share our passion for agility. The event was brimming with valuable information. I left with a treasure trove of techniques to enhance our practices – from coaching during meetings to leveraging drama techniques to unearth client needs and even exploring novel perspectives on metrics.
A standout encounter was with the enigmatic Chris Stone. His views on agility and his prowess in fostering collaboration during retrospectives were genuinely inspiring. If you’re not following him on LinkedIn yet, I highly recommend it – you won’t be disappointed.
One pivotal aspect that garnered attention was the Agile Coaching Code of Ethics. The call for coaches to sign this code (which you can find here) was a critical reminder of our responsibility to uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct. I was quick to sign it, as I firmly believe these nine principles are essential guidelines for our interactions within the industry.
During the conference, we engaged in enlightening “Lightning Talks” sessions, where the brevity of three five-minute talks or Pecha Kucha presentations made each moment count. I had the exhilarating opportunity to conduct a Pecha Kucha discussion, an experience that was both enjoyable and, admittedly, a tad nerve-wracking given the time constraints. However, one talk took an unexpected turn – an individual’s impassioned expression veered into darkness, sowing discord among the attendees. While the individual raised valid points about realigning agile coaching, their choice of words and demeanour left a negative mark on the room. It’s a reminder that even as we address critical topics, our approach matters – constructive dialogue is our most excellent tool.
In the aftermath, I pondered how I would approach the topic differently. Beginning with a clear problem statement – the divergence of agile coaching from its core values – could lay the groundwork for a more engaging discussion. Exploring sub-topics like the encroachment of coaches into program management roles, the challenges posed by leadership’s misaligned expectations, or instances of complacency within the coaching sphere would have fueled a more productive conversation. The aim is not to criticize but to spark meaningful discourse and drive positive change.
Throughout the conference, I engaged in discussions that affirmed a sense of optimism in our field. Amidst challenges, we find beacons of hope, individuals who are shining examples of agile excellence. Their enthusiasm resonates, reminding us that, as agilists, our adaptability, thirst for learning, and commitment to helping others remain unwavering.
I proudly signed the Code of Ethics, a testament to my unwavering dedication to upholding its principles. For those yet to come across the posters, I encourage you to print and sign them, proudly displaying your commitment to ethical agility.
Here’s to a future filled with purposeful collaboration, spirited conversations, and a shared commitment to agile excellence.