Unlocking agile excellence: building cross-functional teams for your IT needs
The ever-evolving nature of the IT industry enforces a shift in approach to project management. Traditional siloed structures are becoming a thing of the past, making way for a more collaborative and responsive model-the cross-functional agile team.
In this article, we will delve into the significance of cross-functional teams in the Agile framework. If you are thinking of embracing this model in your organization or hiring an external agile team, this article is for you!
Understanding cross-functional agile teams
If you have ever worked with an agile team, you know how different it can feel from what other industries than IT got us used in terms of project management. The methodology chops the process up to pieces, enabling all the involved parties to act on the spot before the issues escalate and cause disruption in the process or even sabotage the project’s success. At the same time, it enhances the information exchange and allows expertise to merge with one another.
Cross-functional agile teams embrace this logic, engaging specialists with diverse skills in the process. They join forces, working towards a common goal, giving up on the strict allocation of responsibilities for the sake of a more collaborative model. Member of the cross-functional team actively engages their broad spectrum of competencies, maximizing chances for success. Such a team is much more independent and self-sufficient, and not susceptible to the information silos effect, which often occurs in a waterfall project management model.
Why cross-functional teams in agile?
Cross-functional teams have amazing potential, enabling their members to make the most out of their skills instead of limiting themselves to a very limited scope of expertise. With their collaborative nature, they let creativity flow and flourish, which can have a great impact on the project. Team members can draw from their diverse backgrounds and join their insights to tackle
However, cross-functionality also exposes team members to some challenges. Agile methodology tackles them by encouraging constant feedback. The way it structures the project forces teams to confront their visions, observations, and concerns on a daily basis. Due to the iterative model, they can quickly catch and improve any issues and quickly adapt to changing requirements.
Building your cross-functional agile team
Most software houses today work with agile methodologies. They enable them to achieve the best results in the shortest time at the most optimized budget, resulting in the highest financial benefits – also on your side. Internet is filled with success stories sparkled with a switch to Agile, from LEGO to ING. Embracing an agile approach is essential if your company puts an emphasis on a goal-oriented attitude, and forming cross-functional teams is at the heart of this transformative journey.
You can either build a dedicated external team or create your own internal one, with or without outsourcing support. If you go for a second option, first of all, you will need to redefine your approach to hiring, putting versatility and flexibility over the proficiency of skills. Your team members will need solid training in Agile principles and working processes. Cultivating a collaborative culture is also essential. Promote knowledge-sharing and prepare your employees for a more collaborative approach, where different perspectives matter more than anything.
Conclusion
Cross-functional teams and Agile methodology are a perfect match and if you implement them well, success is guaranteed! Try out this collaborative model and unlock your full potential!
