Agile is NOT Dead... It is Just in a New Era!

The New Agile Principles

1) Own The Problem & The Solution

Agile addresses complexity, where uncertainty reigns. There simply is no clear-cut solution to your problems. What is worse, the moment you apply a solution without understanding it, you surrender control and become a spectator.

The first principle is to understand and fully accept that the only person who can decide what the solution might be is the person who is closest to the problem — you. Embrace this responsibility.

2) Be a Learner

Effective problem-solving requires knowledge. The only way to take responsibility for your problems is by having the necessary knowledge at hand. And the only way you can do this is by becoming a scholar. Continuously learning.

Knowledge is power. The more you know, the better you can understand your problem and the more solutions you will be able to come up with. The better you will be able to spar with others. The better you can take responsibility for your problems.

Innovation rests on the shoulders of those who came before you.

3) Be Critical

Knowledge is merely information. To wield knowledge effectively you need wisdom.

Wisdom comes from scepticism, from asking questions, being aware of assumptions, deep analysis, seeking diverse perspectives and engaging in thoughtful discussion. Strive to understand the context and the limitations of the knowledge you have. Strive to discover the gaps in your knowledge.

Being critical is the only way to discern what the value and applicability is of any knowledge.

4) Be Creative

Complexity means continuously facing novel problems that demand original solutions. That can only happen with creativity. Experimentation.

Accept that! Realize that that is the job!

Again, you may stand on the shoulders of geniuses and most of what you create may be derivative, but in the context of your particular problem, the solution will always be an act of creation, something unique.

5) Be Humble

Wielding the previous principles effectively will do awesome things for your self-confidence. Solving problems will become a game you love to play.

But beware! Arrogance is fatal. The only way to remain effective is by embracing humility and always accepting that whatever you come up with may and probably will fail, and can always be improved.

Humility is the foundation of continuous improvement. It leads to the need to experiment and validate, a need to second-guess yourself, a quest to make absolutely sure your solutions truly work.

6) Be a Teacher

Last of all, be a teacher. This may sound weird, but the truth is that teaching solidifies understanding. Teaching, whether through your teams, through writing, presentations, or mentorship, forces you to articulate your thoughts clearly, and forces you to structure your knowledge and identify gaps in your understanding.

This is the true sign of mastery of your profession.

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