How can you make agile decisions remotely?

1 Define the problem and the goal

Before you jump into making a decision, you need to have a clear understanding of what the problem is, why it matters, and what you want to achieve. This will help you frame the decision, communicate it to your team, and evaluate the outcomes. To define the problem and the goal, you can use tools like the 5 Whys, the Problem Statement, or the SMART criteria. You can also involve your team in this process, by asking for their input, feedback, and perspectives.

2 Explore the options and the risks

Once you have a clear problem and goal, you need to explore the possible options and the risks associated with each one. This will help you weigh the pros and cons, identify the trade-offs, and anticipate the consequences. To explore the options and the risks, you can use tools like the SWOT analysis, the Decision Matrix, or the Premortem. You can also invite your team to brainstorm, share, and critique the options, by using online platforms, polls, or chat channels.

3 Decide and communicate

After you have explored the options and the risks, you need to make a decision and communicate it to your team and other stakeholders. This will help you gain alignment, commitment, and support for your decision. To decide and communicate, you can use tools like the RAPID framework, the DACI model, or the Decision Tree. You can also leverage your team's strengths, preferences, and roles, by using tools like the Belbin Team Roles, the DISC assessment, or the Kolbe Index.

4 Execute and monitor

Making a decision is not enough; you also need to execute it and monitor its progress and impact. This will help you adjust, improve, and learn from your decision. To execute and monitor, you can use tools like the Action Plan, the OKR framework, or the PDCA cycle. You can also empower your team to take ownership, responsibility, and accountability for their actions, by using tools like the RACI matrix, the Delegation Poker, or the Scrum methodology.

5 Review and reflect

Finally, you need to review and reflect on your decision and its outcomes. This will help you celebrate your successes, acknowledge your failures, and identify your learnings and opportunities for growth. To review and reflect, you can use tools like the After Action Review, the Retrospective, or the Feedback Loop. You can also encourage your team to share their insights, feedback, and suggestions, by using tools like the Appreciative Inquiry, the Start-Stop-Continue, or the Fist of Five.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?