I once asked my Agile class what they would do vis a vis change management to prepare the organization to take on Agile methods, if only a pilot to start.
One student replied this way. I thought it was pretty decent list, so I present it unabridged:
"In order to gain acceptance I would use the following change management techniques:
- Vision–Clearly articulate the vision and needs
- Phased Implementation–Start out slow and progressively implement Agile practices in a prioritized order
- Create a Communications Plan–Ensure all affected parties understand your vision and realize the benefits of Agile. You need to explore how Agile practices will impact the customer, the organization, various departments and the employees who will be involved.
- Educate Stakeholders–Education of stakeholders is imperative. Everyone on your communication plan needs to understand why Agile is being implemented, and the benefits and practices involved.
- Prepare for Change Resistance–I would use my communication plant to communicate my vision to the sponsor and key stakeholders/customers, accept that there may be resistance to the change. I would need to continually stress the benefits for the nuclear utility and how Agile could be beneficial to them on future projects.
Once the customer agreed to use the Agile methodology to implement the Plant Computer System as a pilot project for Agile, I would transition to the Agile Project t Methodology as follows:
- Business Value–Specify how Agile will help resolve any current problems, and how it supports the business objectives.
- Create Implementation Plan–Create and execute a communications plan to share key messages and listen to sponsors , employees and other stakeholders. Continuously communicate progress, objectives and changes. Solicit feedback to ensure support for the transition.
- Create Communication Plan–Create and execute a communications plan to share key messages and listen to sponsors, employees and other stakeholders. Continuously communicate progress, objectives and changes. Solicit feedback to ensure support for the transition.
- Create Training Plan–Create and execute a training plan. Provide the team with sufficient training and continued support. Many Agile implementations have failed after team members were sent to training and afterwards told to implement new approaches without further support or guidance."
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