Outcome-Driven Feature Prioritization for Agile Teams | Alfa Sommersol
Learn how focusing on business outcomes instead of features can lead to better decision-making, faster delivery, and more value for your customers.
As you traverse the remnants of the Incan Empire, a historical testament to impeccable organization and innovative systems, one begins to discern themes reminiscent of modern Agile practices.
Photo by Adrian Dascal on Unsplash
28.07.2023
Alfa Sommersol
Step back in time to the height of the Incan Empire, where distributed leadership, iterative development, and a keen attention to continuous improvement were integral to the civilization's success.
The Incan system of governance was predicated on a distributed leadership model, remarkably akin to the roles of Scrum Master and Product Owner in Agile methodology. The Sapa Inca, or the Emperor, made key decisions, while regional leaders executed these plans.
As you trace the terraced agriculture fields and expansive road networks of the Incas, observe the embodiment of Agile's iterative development. Every infrastructure project was a continuous work-in-progress, constantly evaluated and improved upon.
Public works projects in the Incan Empire are striking examples of stakeholder engagement, an important aspect of Agile methodologies. Locals were actively involved in the construction and maintenance of roads and other public infrastructure, enhancing the sense of shared ownership.
In Incan agriculture, one finds echoes of Agile's emphasis on feedback and adaptation. Farmers would observe crop performance on different terraces, adjust farming practices based on results, and continuously refine their approaches, mirroring Agile's iterative cycles.
In Incan civil engineering, the Agile principle of empirical process control shines through. Structures were built using trial and error, with each successive iteration improving upon the last, embodying the essence of Agile development.
The parallels between Agile practices and the operations of the Incan Empire serve as a compelling reminder of Agile's enduring principles. The Incas' approach to leadership, development, and stakeholder engagement holds valuable lessons for modern Agile practitioners.
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