Boots on the Ground
- Hyper alignment in scaling complexity - 

Boots on the Ground - Hyper alignment in scaling complexity

by Dirk Depré, September 01, 2022

What we are trying to do in a world where we need to be more responsive than ever is to bring clarity.

The process itself is simple. There is a certain need that leads to a concrete idea and eventually to a plan to deliver value. The input thus translates into a product vision, a clear picture of what needs to be made and therefore descriptions of what we would like. In that process, we then do magical things to deliver that piece of business value. That piece of value is only valuable to the business if they can actually work with it. I still think that a potentially shippable product increment is a good guide for a team.

And then it starts again... and so on, over and over. You might think that pace is killing. And actually, it is if you look at it that way. Fortunately, there are mechanisms that make this not only feasible but also enjoyable to work in. High alignment and focus contribute, among other things, to creating a flow. That flow is contagious and once you're there, there's no better feeling. Building things, receiving feedback quickly, adjusting, building things that make people happy. Not slogging, pulling, and dragging, but working together and collaborating.

And then there's the complexity of multiple teams doing this and possibly being dependent on each other at the same time. Good design and logical grouping of teams are then necessary. Not easy, but necessary. Again, hyper alignment applies here.

Hyper alignment is not a one-off or something done once every few weeks. It is a continuous process with some important moments to ensure transparency. Despite all the ongoing discussions, there is value in creating snapshots and looking ahead. Getting everyone on the same page again and bringing focus. Not a plan carved in stone but a clear plan that might change the day after the snapshot is created. Continually seeking alignment, adjusting when necessary, whether early or late, whenever it is needed!