You're leading IT teams with conflicting methodologies. How can you unite them for project success?

1 Assess Needs

Before attempting to unite your IT teams, it's crucial to thoroughly understand their current methodologies and why they adhere to them. Some might prefer Agile's flexibility and iterative nature , while others stick to Waterfall's structured and sequential approach . Engage with team leads to comprehend the rationale behind their chosen methods. This will not only show respect for their expertise but also provide you with insight into how these methodologies meet their specific needs. With this knowledge, you can identify overlapping objectives and areas of potential synergy.

2 Set Objectives

Once you grasp the methodologies in play, set clear, unified objectives that transcend individual team preferences. These should be overarching goals that everyone can rally behind, regardless of their methodology. Communicate these objectives consistently and ensure they are SMART: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound . By focusing on common goals, you can create a sense of shared purpose that encourages collaboration and minimizes methodological conflicts.

3 Facilitate Dialogue

Creating a platform for open dialogue is essential in resolving methodological conflicts. Encourage teams to share their successes and challenges with their respective approaches. This exchange of ideas can lead to a greater understanding and appreciation of different methodologies. Facilitate workshops or regular meetings where teams can collaboratively discuss how to integrate their processes for the benefit of the project. This will not only help in finding common ground but also in fostering a culture of continuous learning and mutual respect.

4 Blend Practices

With an understanding of each methodology and a dialogue in place, you can begin to blend practices from different methodologies to create a hybrid approach tailored to your project's needs. For instance, you might combine Agile's sprint reviews with Waterfall's upfront planning stages . Be pragmatic and flexible; not all practices will mesh perfectly, and adjustments will be necessary. By selectively combining elements, you can create a cohesive strategy that leverages the strengths of each methodology.

5 Implement Gradually

When introducing a blended approach, it's important to implement changes gradually . Abrupt shifts in methodology can lead to confusion and resistance. Start by integrating small, non-disruptive practices that show quick wins and build trust among the teams. As everyone becomes more comfortable with the changes, you can introduce more significant integrations. This incremental approach allows teams to adapt without feeling overwhelmed, ensuring a smoother transition to the new unified methodology.