Create a team Agreement.(Part 2)
Creating an Agile team agreement is pivotal for shaping a high-performing team. This guide includes questions to facilitate the process effectively.
1. Understanding the Purpose
— Why a Team Agreement?
* Sets clear expectations.
* Enhances communication.
* Builds trust and accountability.
2. Preparation
— Who Should Be Involved?
* All team members and, optionally, a facilitator.
— What Materials are Needed?
* Whiteboard or digital collaboration tool, sticky notes or their digital equivalents.
3. Facilitating the Meeting
—Setting the Stage
* Explain the purpose and importance.
* Create a safe, open environment for discussion.
—Brainstorming Session
* Encourage each member to list their expectations, concerns, and goals.
Questions for Consideration:
— “What do you need from this team to perform at your best?”
— “What are your expectations for communication and feedback?”
— “How do you handle conflicts and disagreements?”
4. Drafting the Agreement
—Key Components
* Communication norms, quality standards, conflict resolution methods, work hours, and availability.
— Creating the Draft
* Use clear, simple language.
* Ensure it’s realistic and achievable.
Facilitator Questions:
— “How do we want to communicate as a team?”
— “What does a successful outcome look like for us?”
— “How can we effectively resolve disagreements?”
5. Review and Agreement
— Group Review
* Adjust the draft based on team feedback.
—Final Agreement
* Formalize the document once consensus is reached.
* Have all team members acknowledge it.
Questions for Final Review:
— “Does this agreement reflect our collective values and goals?”
— “Are there any points that need clarification or adjustment?”
6. Implementation and Follow-up
—Making It Visible
* Display the agreement where the team can regularly see it.
— Regular Check-ins
* Use retrospectives to review the agreement.
* Update it as the team evolves.
Check-in Questions:
— “Is our agreement still serving us well?”
— “What changes or updates should we consider?”
7. Conclusion
A team agreement is more than a document; it’s a commitment to shared working standards, fostering a transparent, respectful, and efficient environment.
8. Takeaway
The team agreement is dynamic, evolving as the team grows. Regular revisits ensure its relevance, driving continuous improvement and sustained high performance. Always ask, “How can our agreement better support our growth and performance?”
