What is the first step to implementing lean software development in your team?

3 Optimize flow

The third step to implementing lean software development is to optimize flow, which is the smooth and fast movement of value from the source to the customer. Flow is affected by factors such as cycle time, throughput, lead time, and queue length. You should measure these metrics and use them to identify bottlenecks, variability, and inefficiencies in your value streams. You should then apply techniques such as value stream mapping, kanban boards, work in progress limits, single-piece flow, and team collaboration to optimize flow.

4 Implement feedback

The fourth step to implementing lean software development is to implement feedback, which is the information that helps you evaluate and improve your value delivery. Feedback can come from various sources, such as customers, stakeholders, users, testers, peers, and tools. You should collect feedback frequently and use it to validate your assumptions, verify your quality, and adjust your plans. You should also apply techniques such as customer surveys, user testing, code reviews, automated testing, and continuous integration to implement feedback.

5 Embrace learning

The fifth step to implementing lean software development is to embrace learning, which is the process of acquiring and applying new knowledge and skills to improve your value delivery. Learning can happen at different levels, such as individual, team, and organizational. You should foster a culture of learning that encourages curiosity, experimentation, reflection, and sharing. You should also apply techniques such as retrospectives, root cause analysis, gemba walks, and knowledge management to embrace learning.

6 Empower people

The sixth step to implementing lean software development is to empower people, which is the practice of giving your team members the autonomy, authority, and responsibility to make decisions and take actions that affect their value delivery. Empowered people are more motivated, engaged, and productive. They also have more ownership, accountability, and creativity. You should support your team members by providing them with clear vision, goals, and expectations, as well as the resources, tools, and training they need. You should also apply techniques such as self-organizing teams, servant leadership, and recognition to empower people.

7 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?