Yes, Scrum Works When Used as Described: Redefining Collaboration and Ownership

A Global Collaboration

Our project was a journey across continents, bringing together a diverse team from Romania, Guinea, Tunisia, and France. With a four-month deadline, we embraced Scrum, not just as a framework but as a catalyst for redefining teamwork in a global setting.

Navigating Diversity and Distance

Our challenges were as diverse as our team - different time zones, cultural backgrounds, and a matrix organizational structure. The rapid pace and rigorous demands of the project added to the complexity. The initial rhythm was unfamiliar, leading to cultural clashes and communication hurdles.

The Dynamic 'Pizza Team' and Client Integration

Our key strategy was the formation of a 'Pizza Team', agile and adaptable, evolving with each sprint. This wasn’t just about agile planning and execution; it was about a service-oriented mindset, focusing on delivering real value. We automated key aspects like 'architecture as code' and 'documentation as code', but our most revolutionary step was integrating the client directly into the Pizza Team.

Client as a Team Member

This integration transformed the traditional client-provider relationship. The client, now an active member of the Pizza Team, increased ownership and transparency. This setup led to a deeper understanding of the project goals and a shared responsibility for the outcomes.

Treating the client as a team member, not just a stakeholder, transforms the dynamics of the project. It's not about us and them; it's about 'we,' working together towards a common goal.

Conflict and Resolution: Building Trust and Understanding

Adjusting to this new dynamic wasn't easy. Cultural differences initially led to conflicts. We responded with open communication channels, direct interactions, and tailored one-on-one meetings. We aligned our team structure with our architectural needs, following Conway's Law, to optimize collaboration.

Success Through Shared Ownership

The outcome was a testament to the power of Scrum. By onboarding the client onto the team, we not only met our deadlines but also enhanced the project's quality and the team's experience. This journey demonstrated that true collaboration and shared ownership are pivotal for the success of any project, especially in a diverse, international landscape.

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