Agnostic Agility: A flexible approach for modern organizations
Agnostic agility, as such, is not new and already exists as a label. Agnostic agility is gaining attention within agile thinking and organizational transformation. While traditional agile frameworks like Scrum and Kanban offer valuable structures, many organizations find that rigid adherence to a single framework can limit their agility. This is where Agnostic agility steps in—an approach that embraces flexibility and prioritizes the needs of the team and the situation over strict loyalty to any particular method.
Why agnostic agility matters
Agility isn't a one-size-fits-all solution, yet many organizations still treat it that way, clinging to specific frameworks as if they are the definitive answers. However, rigid adherence to a framework can limit true agility rather than enhance it. Agnostic Agility allows for flexibility, allowing teams to tailor their approach based on their context rather than the method.
In my years of consulting, I've seen firsthand that successful teams don't rely on one fixed playbook. Instead, they adapt, blend, and evolve, selecting different methods depending on their problem and the people involved. For example, a team may use Scrum for sprint planning but apply Kanban to manage continuous workflow. Agnostic agility isn't just about choosing a framework; it's about embracing a mindset that values adaptability and the freedom to tailor practices to meet real-world challenges.
Now you might wonder, wasn't that the goal in the first place with an agile approach? The answer is an entire YES! Along the way with large-scale agile transformations and agile at scale framework, pursuing implementing the model became too much of a focus, sacrificing agility.
The core principles of (agnostic) agility
People over Processes: In agility, people come first. Frameworks should serve the team, not the other way around. Each team has unique dynamics, contexts, and challenges, and rigid adherence to one methodology can be restrictive.
Responding to change over Following a plan: While agility preaches responsiveness to change, many teams are stuck in rigid frameworks. Agility encourages adaptability in real-time, allowing teams to shift their approach when circumstances change.
Context-driven solutions over Prescriptive frameworks: Context matters. Not every project fits neatly into a single methodology, and the best solution often requires a combination of tools.
Collaboration over Contract Negotiation: Agility elevates collaboration beyond the confines of any one framework, focusing on what works best for the team and stakeholders.
Focus on outcomes over Outputs: A key pillar of agility is the shift from focusing solely on outputs to outcomes. This mindset shift encourages teams to look beyond task completion and toward delivering actual value.
Why agility matters
In today's fast-moving business environment, organizations must navigate a variety of disruptions—be it digital transformation or the shift to remote work during the COVID-19 pandemic. A rigid "copy-paste" approach to agile methods doesn't allow for the necessary flexibility to respond to such changes. Agnostic Agility empowers organizations to mix and match practices to meet their unique needs, making them more adaptable and better able to thrive in a world of constant change.
Business agility, the ability to adapt rapidly while delivering value, and resilience, the ability to recover from disruptions, are crucial for organizational success today.
Three conditions for adopting agility
- A culture of flexibility: Agility requires an organizational culture open to change and experimentation. Teams should feel empowered to try new approaches without fear of failure.
- Outcome-focused approach: Teams should prioritize outcomes over strict adherence to frameworks. Success should be measured by the value delivered rather than the number of tasks completed.
- Leadership support: For agility to thrive, leaders must encourage teams to adapt their methods, experiment, and make decisions autonomously.
Techniques for driving continuous improvement
Value Stream Mapping helps visualize workflows and identify inefficiencies. Dysfunction Mapping allows teams to recognize and address behaviors that limit agility. Operational Rhythm and Goal Setting with OKRs provide structure while maintaining flexibility.
Agility emphasizes adaptability, collaboration, and outcomes over rigid methods allows teams to thrive in an ever-changing world. The future of agility lies not in strict frameworks but in the freedom to choose, experiment, and evolve based on what delivers the most value.
Agility empowers teams to adapt to their context, focus on people, and prioritize delivering meaningful outcomes. Embracing this mindset ensures your organization remains resilient and agile, no matter what challenges lie ahead.
Let's approach "Agnostic agility" as simply "Agility."