TfT #2 / Upgrading 5400 years old tech: tools for better reading

TfT 2 / Upgrading 5400 years old tech: tools for better reading

Reading has been around for over 5400 years, ever since its invention along with writing. Despite its long history, the process of reading has remained largely unchanged. It still remains the most efficient way to absorb information. In his meta-book "How to Read a Book," Mortimer Adler highlights three different types of reading: inspectional reading, analytical reading, and synoptical reading. These methods help us engage with the text at various levels and extract the most value from our reading experience.

However, reading in today's digital age has taken on a new dimension with the rise of social reading. Social reading plugins, such as Glasp curators, have become our filters, helping us discover new books, articles, and insights from others who share our interests. This social reading trend is here to stay and is only just beginning to transform the way we read and connect with others over books.

On the other hand, perfecting the Scrum framework does not necessarily guarantee the delivery of value. While Scrum provides a structure for product development, it does not answer critical questions about the value and impact of the work being done. Instead, Scrum focuses on building a Product Increment that aligns with the Sprint Goal and meets the Definition of Done.

The Definition of Done, as defined by Paddy Corry, does not mean the work is entirely finished. It means that it is ready for feedback. Delivering value goes beyond simply following the Scrum process correctly; it requires crossing the value delivery chasm. Scrum intentionally leaves room for organizations to determine what is valuable and how it aligns with their overall Product Goal and Product Vision.

In order to improve value delivery, we need to shift the focus from perfecting Scrum to identifying and delivering meaningful value. Here are three actionable pieces of advice to enhance value delivery:

• 1. Clearly define your Product Vision and Goal: Having a clear vision and goal will guide your decision-making process and ensure that the work being done aligns with the overall value you intend to deliver.

• 2. Engage with stakeholders and users: Actively seek feedback from stakeholders and users to understand their needs and expectations. This feedback will help you prioritize your work and ensure that you are delivering value where it matters most.

• 3. Continuously evaluate and iterate: Regularly evaluate the impact and value of your work and be willing to make changes and adjustments as needed. Embrace an iterative mindset that allows for continuous improvement and learning.

In conclusion, while reading has remained a fundamental skill for centuries, the way we approach it is evolving with social reading platforms. Similarly, while Scrum provides a valuable framework for product development, delivering value goes beyond simply following the process correctly. By focusing on defining clear goals, engaging with stakeholders, and continuously evaluating and iterating, we can enhance our ability to deliver meaningful value.