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Transforming Army Operations with Agile Practices
The U.S. Army’s Program Executive Office Enterprise Information Systems (PEO EIS) is reshaping the way it handles processes through a unique Agile transformation, spearheaded by Aric Sherwood, the head of the Acquisition Innovation Directorate (AID). Recognizing the need for improved information sharing, Sherwood has initiated a 'Scrum of Scrums' (SoS) to foster collaboration within their Agile practices. These gatherings began in July 2023 and aim to promote effective communication and synergy among various programs within EIS.
The Impact of Scrum of Scrums
The SoS meetings, which are adaptations of industry models tailored for the Army, have made significant strides in bridging gaps between teams. Contrary to civilian-sector approaches, these sessions are held monthly and are larger, focusing primarily on overarching information sharing rather than product-specific details. This monthly cadence ensures that team members are aligned on both functional and strategic fronts. Significantly, the October 2023 SoS led to productive discussions and further collaboration with various product offices, showcasing the value of these interactions.
Agile Metrics and Program Enhancements
A prominent outcome from the SoS initiatives is the introduction of metrics-focused sync meetings between portfolios, led by EIS's Program Executive Officer, Bill Hepworth. This development underscored the importance of 'Agile Metrics That Matter,' reflecting on the crucial role these metrics play in elevating efficiency and effectiveness across programs. The collaborative environment encouraged by the SoS has enabled EIS to self-reflect and adapt, fostering a culture where feedback and insights are utilized to drive improvements.
Future Predictions and Trends in Agile Practices
As EIS continues to evolve its Agile methodologies, the future looks promising with a sustained emphasis on integration and adaptation. There is potential for further growth as teams continue learning from both internal success stories and external agile experts, such as those from Gartner and the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command. These interactions not only enhance the current systems but also prepare the organization for upcoming challenges and technological advancements which may require nimble and adaptive approaches.
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