Mar.20

Sprint: How to Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days

The authors lay out a very good case for the weaknesses and perils of “Brainstorming” an idea.  They systematically lay out a 5 day plan with strict limits that have produced wonders at Google Ventures.  The authors claim that random brainstorming almost never produces usable results.

I do think implementing a rigid system like this might be a tough sell in many workplaces.  Especially those with entrenched methods.  It might also not be right for every situation.  However, if you have a big problem to solve it sure seems to be worth the effort.  Look at Google’s successes to see this much.

 

Buy it on Amazon!

Management Books

Jan.19

Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time

“Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time” by Jeff Sutherland is great for anybody who wants insights on how to be more productive anywhere in their life. The book covers such topics like the observation that multitasking is overrated or even counter productive.  Doing the job right the first time and immediately addressing problems is very productive.  I have seen far too many companies take short cuts up front only to cost many man hours later.  These costs are easy to bury and bad managers rely on this fact to get away with this inefficient practice.
Doing the job right the first time and immediately addressing problems is very productive. And a reminder that the 80 / 20 rule is almost always relevant.

 

While I’m not sure this book gives enough detail to actually implement the Scrum methodology, I do recommend this book for the many management tips.

Buy it at Amazon!

Management Books