Rational vs Reasonable Scrum Implementation

In the Agile landscape, one thing remains constant: Scrum is a game changer, here is my real proof.

In this post, I will share my take on Rational vs Reasonable Scrum Implementation.

Whether you’re in tech or working in a completely different field, the promise of improved productivity and teamwork that Scrum offers is hard to ignore. But there’s more to successful Scrum adoption than simply diving in. It requires an approach that’s both rational and reasonable—one driven by data and logic, but also sensitive to the unique needs of your team.

Understanding the balance between these two approaches is crucial to navigating Scrum’s complexities and maximizing its benefits.

Let’s break down what this really means and how it can help you and your organization thrive.

The Rational Approach to Scrum: Data, Logic, and Long-Term Success

Think of the rational approach as the methodical route to Scrum.

It’s about digging deep into analysis, leveraging data, and making decisions based on measurable insights.

When done right, it leads to precise alignment between Scrum practices and your organizational goals.

Data-Driven Decisions in Scrum

Scrum isn’t one-size-fits-all. Before implementing it, it’s essential to understand your current workflows and where things could improve. This is where metrics come into play.

For example, in a software company, looking at how long tasks take (cycle times) and how long it takes to complete projects (lead times) can show where things are slowing down or getting stuck.

By understanding these delays, the company can tweak Scrum to specifically fix those problem areas, making their work more efficient and effective.

This approach allows organizations to customize Scrum to address the specific pain points that data highlights.

Objective Evaluation

Sometimes teams resist Scrum—not because it’s not right for them, but because change can be uncomfortable, and they don’t want to leave their comfort zone.

For instance, a marketing team might be hesitant to jump into Scrum because they’re used to their current workflow. A rational approach sidesteps this emotional resistance by relying on empirical evidence. It’s not about gut feelings; it’s about facts. Case studies from similar teams who’ve thrived with Scrum can shift the conversation from “Why change?” to “Why haven’t we done this sooner?”

Long-Term Goals Over Quick Wins

Scrum isn’t just about fixing today’s problems. It’s about laying the groundwork for long-term success.

Take a financial services company, for example. If their goal is to improve client satisfaction over the next year, Scrum allows them to develop features iteratively while keeping a pulse on customer feedback.

By focusing on their long-term vision, they ensure their progress isn’t just sustainable but scalable.

The Reasonable Approach to Scrum: Adaptation, Flexibility, and Team Dynamics

Now, let’s talk about the reasonable approach. While the rational approach is all about logic and data, being reasonable is about recognizing the human side of things—team culture, individual circumstances, and the broader context of your organization. Sometimes, the “by-the-book” version of Scrum doesn’t fit every team, and that’s okay.

Practical Adaptation

Scrum’s structure is powerful, but it can be flexible.

A healthcare organization might find that daily stand-ups, a key aspect of Scrum, are too frequent for their pace. While we know these meetings still take place, perhaps with longer durations, for the sake of this example, let’s imagine they want to adjust the frequency instead.

Instead of forcing the team into a rigid mold, a reasonable approach might be to reduce the frequency of meetings while still embracing the collaborative spirit of Scrum.

Even though I wouldn’t recommend doing this until reaching the “Ri” stage of the Shu Ha Ri progression in Scrum, where the “Ri” stage signifies that the Scrum Master can step back and allow the team—now a well-functioning and productive unit—to operate at their highest potential.

Consideration of Team Dynamics

Team dynamics are crucial when introducing a new framework like Scrum. Some people might feel overwhelmed by the shift from traditional project management. A reasonable approach involves listening, adapting, and supporting. This could mean providing extra training or creating open forums for concerns.

In industries like manufacturing, where workers are used to older ways of doing things, introducing new methods like Scrum can be challenging.

People may hesitate or resist change because they’re comfortable with the old system. By approaching the situation with empathy—understanding their concerns—and patience—giving them time to adjust—you create an environment where they’re more likely to accept and succeed with the new approach.

This support can be the key to successfully transitioning and making the new method work.

Balanced Risk Management

Not every organization has the same risk tolerance.

Scrum plays a crucial role in balancing the different risk tolerances organizations have. Startups, often more open to experimentation, might quickly adopt Scrum’s innovative processes without much hesitation.

On the other hand, established corporations with legacy systems may be more cautious, needing a slower and more careful approach.

Scrum allows flexibility to tailor practices based on these varying levels of risk tolerance, helping organizations find the right balance between embracing change and maintaining the stability they need to function effectively.

Real-World Examples: Spotify vs. the BBC

These concepts might sound abstract, but let’s look at real-world examples where different approaches to Scrum played out with success.

Spotify: A Rational Approach

Spotify’s famous “Spotify Model” is the gold standard for a rational approach to Scrum. Everything they do is built on analysis and data. They didn’t just adopt Scrum—they evolved it. By organizing their teams into squads, tribes, chapters, and guilds, Spotify ensured collaboration while allowing for specialization. They consistently use data to refine this model, making objective decisions that are less about feelings and more about maximizing productivity and quality.

BBC: A Reasonable Approach

On the other hand, the BBC took a more reasonable route. Instead of rigidly enforcing Scrum practices, they allowed teams to tweak the framework to fit their needs. Not every team had daily stand-ups and sprint lengths varied based on the project. The focus here wasn’t perfection; it was practicality.

By giving teams room to breathe and adjust, the BBC fostered an environment where Scrum could thrive without imposing a one-size-fits-all mentality.

Finding Your Balance – Rational vs Reasonable Scrum Implementation

Adopting Scrum isn’t just about following a rulebook or adhering to strict guidelines. It’s about balance. A purely rational approach might miss the human factors that can make or break Scrum’s success, while a purely reasonable approach risks losing focus on long-term goals.

The key is blending both. Use data and logic to guide your decisions, but don’t forget to consider your team’s culture and the practical realities of your organization.

At the end of the day, implementing Scrum is a journey—not just for your processes, but for your people.

By balancing rational analysis with a reasonable understanding of team dynamics, you’ll be set up for success that’s not only sustainable but transformational.

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