- Ask teammates to set focus time - Define readiness and completion for user story - Have a quick call everyday to know the progress & blockers (if any) and work on resolving blockers as soon as possible - Set no meeting day at least one day in a week

As an engineering leader with extensive experience, I've found that addressing team productivity challenges requires a holistic approach, not just pushing harder. When deadlines loom, creating an environment that enables success rather than amplifying pressure is key. The first step is understanding the root causes. Are there technical roadblocks, unclear requirements, or communication gaps? Often, I've discovered that productivity issues stem from systemic problems rather than individual performance. We can identify these underlying challenges by conducting one-on-one discussions and team retrospectives. I've learned that implementing shorter feedback loops and breaking down large tasks into manageable chunks helps maintain momentum.

To boost productivity and ensure deadlines are met, begin by identifying any bottlenecks impacting your team’s workflow, such as unclear requirements or resource limitations. Break down tasks into smaller, manageable milestones, and establish clear, achievable short-term goals to keep the team focused and motivated. Streamline communication to minimize distractions and hold regular check-ins to track progress, providing guidance and support where needed. Encourage collaboration to leverage team strengths and facilitate knowledge-sharing. Additionally, recognize and celebrate quick wins to build momentum. By addressing productivity blockers and focusing on team alignment, you can help your team stay on track to meet project deadlines.

It's crucial to critically analyze "productivity." Clear goals are essential, but measurable performance metrics are key. It's dangerous to misjudge team productivity, leading to incorrect solutions. Break down large goals into smaller ones, and coach your team to self-manage goals and risks instead of relying on reports. A productive daily meeting surpasses a daily progress report. Once the team achieves self-organization, they naturally discover effective methods to meet their deadlines. Your role is to enable their potential with the necessary resources, tools, and trust.

I found that embracing a no-meeting, no-deadline culture transformed team productivity. At first, I thought having more meetings was the "way", but that led to burnout—my own included. We communicate through GitHub, Notion, and Slack, expecting replies within a day. This change taught us that freedom in our work allows creativity to flourish. Yes, it demands clear communication, but it’s worth it. If your team is struggling, consider if less structure could lead to more innovation.