Infographic – Ten Risks of Product Development

Ten Risks of Product Development and Tips for Better Results Sooner with Scrum and Agile Teams.

1.         Delivery Risk

Will anything be delivered at all? “If we did it once, we can do it again!” Scrum teams produce a working, tangible result every Sprint, even the first! Your first line of defense against failure!

2.         Time and Budget Risk

Will it be ready when needed? Do essential functionality first, then you can breathe easier. Operating costs can be more important than development costs.

3.         Scope Risk

Will I get everything I asked for? There are always more good ideas than time to implement. Market Risk is usually more important.

4.         Market Risk

If we build it, will people want it? Get proof early that there is customer who will want your product. Create a clear line of sight from developers to real users and customers.

5.         Technical Risk

Can it really be done? Promote a culture of technical excellence. Accept that explosions are part of rocket development. Invest in test automation.

6.         Social Risk

Can the people work together? The Scrum Master is accountable and takes the lead in creating a positive climate. Culture enables performance.

7.         Dependencies Risk

Will people or components be available when promised? The best dependency is no dependency. Have all necessary skills and authority in the team. Encourage closer collaboration.

8.         Stakeholder Risk

Will the stakeholders change their minds? Respect the decision-making role of the Product Owner. Build consensus early on What Really Matters. Validate your assumptions.

9.         Change Management Risk

Will changing requirements delay the project? Product Owners manage budget, scope, and market risks to create a valuable product. Scrum is robust change management.

10.       Wishful Thinking Risk

Are you asking enough hard questions? Inspect, adapt, and tell yourself the truth. A tangible result every sprint creates transparency. Insist on one, every sprint!

What would you add to this list? What risks left unchecked have killed your projects?

Download, print and post the A3 format infographic (hi-res for printing, small for emailing) to spread awareness.

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