Client expectations clash with agile in digital strategy. How can you navigate this challenge effectively?

1 Understanding Agile

Agile is a project management and product development approach that emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, and customer feedback. It's based on iterative development, where requirements and solutions evolve through collaboration between self-organizing cross-functional teams. In the context of digital strategy, agile enables you to adapt quickly to changes in the market or user feedback, ensuring that the end product is as effective as possible. However, this can be at odds with clients who have fixed ideas or tight deadlines.

2 Client Expectations

Clients may have preconceived notions of what they want from a digital strategy, often influenced by their business goals, industry standards, and personal experiences. They might expect a linear project timeline with clear deliverables and a final product that matches their initial vision. These expectations can clash with the adaptive nature of agile, which can lead to a disconnect if not managed properly. It's crucial to align client expectations with the realities of agile methodologies from the outset.

3 Bridging the Gap

To reconcile client expectations with agile practices, clear communication is vital. Begin by educating clients about the benefits of agile, such as its ability to produce better results by adapting to real-world feedback. Set realistic expectations about how the process works and what they can expect at each stage. Ensure they understand that while their end goal remains a priority, the path to achieving it may vary as the project evolves.

4 Involving Clients

Actively involve clients in the agile process to give them a sense of ownership and control. This can be achieved through regular meetings, progress reports, and opportunities for feedback. By including clients in sprint reviews or planning sessions, they can see firsthand how their input and the agile process are shaping the product. This inclusion helps mitigate the feeling that they're not in control of the end result.

5 Flexible Planning

While agile is inherently flexible, planning is still crucial. Work with clients to outline a roadmap that includes key milestones and potential pivot points. This plan should be revisited and adjusted as necessary throughout the project. By having a flexible but clear plan, clients can feel reassured that their objectives are being met while still benefiting from the adaptability of agile.

6 Ongoing Education

Lastly, continuous education about agile's benefits and processes is essential. As clients become more familiar with agile, they'll be better equipped to understand its value and how it can lead to a more successful digital strategy. Provide resources, case studies, or workshops that help demystify agile and show real-world successes. This ongoing education fosters a stronger partnership and smoother collaboration.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?