Through interviews with dozens of technology executives, Brainspire conducted a research study to find cultural and technical processes and practices that produce the highest return on investment for software development. Below is the fourth of seven recommendations to enable more effective and higher quality software development: Key #4 – Adhere to Process / Methodology.
Whether you’re an Agile or Waterfall shop (or follow another “unique” adaptation of a methodology), be sure your organization is following the methodology and processes that have been adopted as enterprise standards.
Not having a methodology or processes in place is a mistake. And if your groups are taking shortcuts, errors will increase and it will cost money. Look for continuous improvements in your processes and methodologies, and stay true to them. For instance, all organizations agree that project reviews are a best practice, but few actually take the time to review the successes and challenges after a sprint, release cycle or project to course correct.
Following a consistent methodology across projects will allow resources to be more interchangeable as everyone speaks a common language and understands the rituals. And if you’re adopting a new methodology, you must give it time and consistent attention. Adoption is challenging, but it will pay off with executive leadership and support to ensure everyone knows how important it is.
As a senior executive, conduct informal audits of your development methodology and determined how closely each team is following the processes. Small course corrections are generally more effective and easier to implement than wholesale changes. If you discover a major rebellion from the standards, it’s time for serious intervention.
