However, the transition was abrupt, and the team struggled to implement agile principles effectively, particularly in people development. Traditional methods of one-on-one development did not fit well within the new team-based context, prompting Anne to seek out agile certification courses to better understand and implement these practices.
Anne took her first Agility in HR course with ICAgile training provider Agile People in 2020. “Those two days with Agile People were just amazing,” said Anne. The training left such a positive impression that Anne went on to take a more in-depth version of Agility in HR and a Leading with Agility course.
Anne’s Agile Impact
Applying her new knowledge at BESTSELLER Tech, Anne collaborated with leadership to transform the organization’s approach to people and organizational development.
Anne's efforts led to significant improvements:
Faster Delivery and Increased Satisfaction
By implementing agile practices learned from Agile People, Anne and other leaders were able to deliver projects faster, resulting in higher satisfaction among stakeholders and employees. The organization also became more cost-effective.
Development of New HR Tools
Anne spearheaded the creation of new HR templates tailored to an agile setup. For instance, she collaborated with leadership to replace traditional career paths with a more flexible "maze" approach, reflecting the nonlinear nature of career development in an agile environment.
Enhanced Team Collaboration
Anne also worked with leaders at BESTSELLER Tech to create "Our Growth," a team development tool that facilitated team-based discussions aligned with product vision and roadmaps. This approach emphasized team growth over individual performance, fostering a more cohesive and productive work environment.
Continual Improvement
Through regular feedback and focus groups, Anne and other leaders ensured that the new practices were continuously refined and aligned with organizational needs. This iterative approach allowed for constant improvement and adaptation to changing circumstances.
Key Takeaway
Anne's journey with agile training showcases the profound impact that professional development can have on an organization. By prioritizing agile methodologies and integrating them into her work, Anne was able to spearhead improvements in team collaboration, stakeholder satisfaction, and overall organizational efficiency.
Her experience underscores the importance of continuous learning and the value of applying new knowledge to real-world challenges. As a result, Anne has not only enhanced her career but also contributed to the success and growth of BESTSELLER Tech.
Anne’s advice for anyone taking an ICAgile course: "Be prepared to apply the things you learn. You go on a course, and you're taught a lot, and you take this new toolbox, and you bring it home, and it's like, 'Oh, that's nice.' And you put it on a shelf, and you never find it again. So bring it into your real work life."
