New Team Leader

The early identification of risks can save time and avoid a lot of stress. However, it is often left too late which only leads to more problems. Asking more detailed questions and reserving separate blocks of time for completing reviews can help. Have you ever been around toddlers or young kids as they are being potty trained? Here are few common scenarios: Before leaving … [Read more...] about Risk Reviews, Early Escalation and Potty Training

It’s often said that more choice is better. To a certain extent choice is good, but removing options can help focus and productivity. Have you heard of an Acrostic? It’s a word I hadn’t come across for a long time. It’s a simple concept though. The first letter of each line spells out a word or message. Here’s an example... I’d been thinking about the topics for further … [Read more...] about Embrace Constraints for Productivity

Contrary to common belief, software developers are actually better prepared for some leadership roles than is often thought. A common “myth” is that software developers don’t usually make good team leaders. It is clear that some skills needed for the two jobs often differ, eg hard analytic skills vs soft interpersonal skills. A development background can however help in … [Read more...] about 3 Reasons Why Software Developers Make Great Leaders

Relooking at the estimate question from the management perspective can give you some new and powerful insights regarding clarification, transparency, breakdowns and why face to face reviews are important. I had to submit a combined estimate for the project by the end of the day. I had had a 1 line email from James yesterday, saying that he needed 30 days for his part. I … [Read more...] about Are you sure about that estimate? Please check it again