Scrum – Can It Really Change My Working Culture?

Scrum Guide 2020 stipulates that people who become more proficient in living the five scrum values, give direction to the Scrum Team with regard to their work, actions and behaviour.

So let’s explore these values! How can you apply them so that it can positively change your working culture?

Commitment

Each person needs to understand that they are part of a team and that they have a commitment towards what the team aims to achieve. No lone rangers here! Make each person part of the decision making process and let the team decide how long it will take and by when an outcome can be delivered.

Courage

Courage to see tasks through, especially if it is out of your field of experience! The team needs to know that they are trusted -‘You’ve got this!’ Always take courage, admit when you are wrong and change your idea to align with the team.

Focus on your project goal and always ask if your current task contributes to the achievement of that goal? Limit work in progress. Always focus on what your team mates communicate when you listen.

Openness

Each person needs to be open to work with transparency. For this reason there needs to be trust in the team and each person’s voice must be valued. Do fun activities together to build trust, teamwork and friendship. When (not if!) you make a mistake, take courage, be open and share your learnings with the team! Give and encourage constant feedback in a trusted environment.

Respect

Respect yourself and your teammates and treat them with honour. Look for the value that each person brings to the team and acknowledge that each person has the right to their own opinion. Show respect through listening to your team members and ensure that you understand them correctly. Help others by teaching what you know and not judging them for their lack of knowledge.

Be courageous! Examine your working culture. Remember that real change happens in small increments and takes time and commitment. Start this process by recognising the value that EACH team member brings and take full advantage of the change that scrum can bring!

For more information about scrum go to: https://www.scrumalliance.org/about-scrum