The Public Sector Can't Be Agile - Fact or Myth?
Myth! It’s a misconception that Agile isn’t a good fit for public sector agencies. You might have this misconception because it is not clear what it means to be Agile.
Here are a few important clarifications about Agile and how it can work well for your public sector agency.
Agile is a set of principles
Agile is a set of principles that can be successfully applied to any environment, industry, or sector. There are a variety of Agile frameworks that can be used, however, it is not a requirement to use any specific agile framework in order to practice Agile principles, behaviors, and mindset.
Agile excels in complex environments
The Agile frameworks, principles, and tools provide a systematic approach when working on projects with a lot of unknowns and complexity. Through a process of discovery and iteration, Agile provides an empirical approach to working.
Agile provides an adaptable approach
One reason that Agile can be used in any environment is that it is meant to be adaptable to the context in which it’s being used. In an environment that requires compliance, or in which there are a lot of constraints, processes can be put in place to ensure adherence. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach, but rather an approach that continually improves, because of the regular practice to inspect and adapt.
Agile is about learning
Agile promotes continuous learning. Recognizing that change is constant, it’s important to not become complacent with the status quo and continue to do things as they’ve always been done. Agile provides an approach that allows for learning and incorporating new knowledge as a project progresses.
Public sector agencies are seeing success from using Agile
There are many examples of public sector agencies using Agile to implement software projects, modernize service delivery and streamline operations in complex environments.
You can bring agility to your agency through an incremental approach to Agile adoption that focuses on “doing Agile” (practices & behaviors) and “being Agile” (mindset and culture). It is important that you start with a clear goal and focus, learn through experimentation and then expand to other areas of your agency.
