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Stacks of paper folders and documents, symbolizing disorganized work without clear product ownership.
Do We Need a Great Product Owner—Or Just a Great Team?

Jörgen Karlsson, May 13, 2025 | English

In past articles, we’ve questioned the sacred role of the Product Owner. We’ve asked whether AI could replace parts of the role, and explored how roadmaps… Read more

Who’s Really Challenging Whom? Three persons sits in a cafe looking confused, discussing. Coaches what are they really?.
Who’s Really Challenging Whom?

Jörgen Karlsson, Apr 30, 2025 | English

It might sound like a joke: A Scrum Master, a Team Coach, and an Agile Coach walk into a café. Who does what – and who’s supposed to challenge whom… Read more

A lonely manager sitting and thinking with the text 'Managers can never attend restorpsectives'
Myth: Managers Can Never Attend Retrospectives

Jörgen Karlsson, Apr 16, 2025 | English

Managers can never attend retrospectives. That’s the mantra, right? You’ll find it in Agile forums, whispered in coaching corners, even baked into… Read more

How to Make Agile Planning Practical and Real.
The Elephant and the Roadmap: How to Make Agile Planning Practical and Real

Jörgen Karlsson, Apr 9, 2025 | English

If the elephant’s vision is to swim in the water far away, the roadmap is the map through the jungle. It doesn't show every detail, but it gives direction… Read more

A team drowning in tools, sticky notes, and dashboards
Mistake #9: Overcomplicating Operational Execution and Process Management

Jörgen Karlsson, Apr 2, 2025 | English

The dashboard was beautiful. Bursting with color-coded burndown charts, capacity bars, cumulative flow diagrams, and digital post-its in a dozen columns… Read more

A team looking up for something bright - text: the future of teams
Beyond Agile: The Future of Work and Empowered Teams

Jörgen Karlsson, Mar 11, 2025 | English

Agile changed how organizations work. It emphasized self-organizing teams, iterative development, and adaptive planning—ideas that helped businesses… Read more

A woman in front of a futuristic screen whowing a long term plan, a stamp in read with MYTH written on it
Myth: Agile Means We Cannot Have Long-Term Plans

Jörgen Karlsson, Feb 19, 2025 | English

How do you create a long-term roadmap when priorities change every sprint? Many teams struggle to balance strategic direction with Agile flexibility… Read more

Stuck in the Hero Organization -  How to Build a Resilient Learning Organization
Mistake #8: Stuck in the Hero Organization

Jörgen Karlsson, Feb 12, 2025 | English

In the corridors of a large tech company, tension hung heavy in the air. Delivery time was closing in fast. "When we launch the car, it must be perfect… Read more

Infinity loop of gears and hardware parts symbolizing CI/CD cycles
Integrate or Stagnate: Why CI/CD Is Essential for Software, Hardware, and More

Jörgen Karlsson, Feb 4, 2025 | English

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving world, speed and adaptability are not just advantages—they are survival skills. Yet, many organizations still… Read more

Algining teams illustrated by four persons laying a kping puzzle-
5 Actionable Steps to Align Agile Teams

Jörgen Karlsson, Jan 28, 2025 | English

Misaligned teams are like rowing a boat in different directions—plenty of effort, but no progress. But alignment doesn’t have to be elusive; it just… Read more

A modern racing sailboat with sleek carbon-fiber sails and a professional crew navigating open seas. The boat is tethered to a massive, rusted anchor dragging along the ocean floor, symbolizing resistance and holding back progress. The setting is a sunny day with dynamic ocean waves, showcasing the contrast between the boat’s speed and the anchor’s weight
Mistake #7: Clinging to Old Habits – The Anchor Holding Your Transformation Back

Jörgen Karlsson, Jan 22, 2025 | English

Picture this: A cutting-edge racing sailboat, equipped with the latest carbon-fiber sails, state-of-the-art navigation systems, and a world-class crew… Read more

A lighthouse. Symbolises how leaders radiate energy, cutlure and behaviour
The Culture You Tolerate: How Leaders Shape Organizational Norms

Jörgen Karlsson, Jan 14, 2025 | English , Svenska

Culture isn’t what you say—it’s what you do, what you allow, and what you ignore. As leaders, we might think culture is defined by vision statements… Read more

A close-up of a person’s hand passing a set of keys to another, symbolizing trust, empowerment, and the act of relinquishing control to enable team autonomy and true business agility.
2025 - The Year Agile Dies?

Jörgen Karlsson, Jan 7, 2025 | English

As we step into 2025, a provocative question looms large in the Agile community: Is Agile dying? Once celebrated as a revolutionary way of working… Read more

Scrum from rugby.
Scrum or Kanban? Choosing the Right Path for Your Team

Jörgen Karlsson, Dec 17, 2024 | English

Very often I hear teams struggling with what agile method to choose—and perhaps even more so managers and stakeholders to the teams. So, is there a… Read more

A yellow Formula 1 race car surrounded by smoke on a racetrack, symbolizing the challenges of team empowerment and the risks of ineffective Agile transformations.
Mistake #6: The Illusion of Empowerment

Jörgen Karlsson, Dec 10, 2024 | English

Imagine a Formula 1 race where the driver controls the car but must seek approval from the pit crew before every gear shift. Despite having the best… Read more

A man pointing at the screen. IN big black letters showing 'Are You Getting Results?'
Deliver Features, Not Stories: Value Beats Productivity Every Time

Jörgen Karlsson, Dec 3, 2024 | English

Imagine this: Your team just completed a sprint—15 stories delivered, velocity through the roof. But in the sprint review, stakeholders ask the one… Read more

A very nice waterfall with a green forrest around.
Do Waterfall Projects Still Have a Place in Agile Organizations?

Jörgen Karlsson, Nov 26, 2024 | English

In the age of Agile, the traditional waterfall project approach may seem like a relic of the past. Many Agile coaches are quick to dismiss it, and… Read more

A person meditating in the sunset, sitting on a high cliff.
Staying in the Zone: From Self-Management to Organizational Excellence

Jörgen Karlsson, Nov 20, 2024 | English

Have you ever left work with a longer to-do list than when you arrived? Ever felt your critical tasks slipping through the cracks, or needed evenings… Read more

Why Failing to Organize Around Value Derails Agile Transformation. Mistake #5 in a 12-part series on agile transformation failures.
Mistake #5: Why Failing to Organize Around Value Derails Agile Transformation

Jörgen Karlsson, Nov 13, 2024 | English

The decision was made: the company would go Agile. The entire organization was set for an overhaul. Top managers were ecstatic about the prospect of… Read more

A close-up of a person’s hand passing a set of keys to another, symbolizing trust, empowerment, and the act of relinquishing control to enable team autonomy and true business agility.
Are you willing to let go of control to achieve true business agility?

Jörgen Karlsson, Nov 5, 2024 | English

SAFe recently released updates, refining guidance on Portfolio Leadership and Business Value. These updates are valuable, offering practical tips for… Read more

“A man sits thoughtfully in a modern, dream-like business office, with ambient lighting and a digital interface subtly glowing around him, symbolizing AI-driven insights guiding him through a business challenge.”
Unlocking Self-Coaching with AI: How the Tool Guided Me Through a Business Challenge

Jörgen Karlsson, Oct 28, 2024 | English

In an age of rapid change, mastering self-leadership and self-management has become essential. It is an essential skill for any leader. One of the… Read more

“An individual stands on a rocky mountain peak overlooking a vast landscape of rolling blue mountains beneath a bright, clear sky. The text ‘Beyond Agile?’ appears in white with a slight shadow, giving a sense of exploration and looking forward to new horizons beyond Agile methodologies.”
What’s Beyond Agile? Exploring the Next Evolution of Organizations

Jörgen Karlsson, Oct 22, 2024 | English

Agile methodologies have completely changed the way we work, especially in fast-paced industries like software development, marketing, and product… Read more

A depiction of the big bang.
Mistake #4: Adopting a Big Bang – Quick Fix Approach

Jörgen Karlsson, Oct 15, 2024 | English

Before the COVID pandemic, a company, well-known in its field but not a market leader, embarked on an ambitious Agile transformation. The CTO, eager… Read more

Nine competencies of a Scrum Master
Unlocking the Role: Nine Critical, Overlooked Competencies for Every Scrum Master

Jörgen Karlsson, Oct 8, 2024 | English

In today’s fast-paced, ever-evolving business world, are we truly recognizing the depth of skills a Scrum Master needs to succeed? It’s tempting to… Read more

A Product Owner losing his job, looking sad. In the background, a computer screen shows a happy AI replacing the PO.
Do We Really Need a Product Owner, or Can They Be Replaced by AI?

Jörgen Karlsson, Oct 2, 2024 | English

The Product Owner (PO), or "Value Maximizer" as I prefer to call them, has long been considered indispensable in Agile frameworks. They bridge the… Read more

Failure to transform culture. Mistake #3 in a 12-part series on agile transformation failures.
Mistake #3: Inability to Transform Organizational Culture – A Core Obstacle in Agile Transformations

Jörgen Karlsson, Sep 25, 2024 | English

In a mid-sized tech company, the CEO enthusiastically declared, “We’re going Agile!” Teams swiftly adopted new tools, rituals, and frameworks, and… Read more

A man in a black suit and bowler hat balances precariously on a tightrope, holding an umbrella in one hand, against a clear blue sky. The image symbolizes navigating challenges with agility and balance in an uncertain environment.
Beyond Agile Teams: How Business Agility Future-Proofs Your Organization

Jörgen Karlsson, Sep 18, 2024 | English

In one organization I worked with, the goal of the transformation suddenly shifted to "We must start 100 agile teams." My response was blunt: "If we… Read more

Close-up shot capturing intencive care unit displaying loss of heart and brain activity illustrating Agile is dead.
Agile Is Not Dead—It’s Evolving: The Future Beyond Agile

Jörgen Karlsson, Sep 10, 2024 | English

The question of whether Agile is dead continues to ignite debate. Some critics point to studies claiming a 268% higher failure rate for Agile projects… Read more

A lonely leader trying to build a hierarchy with small boxes.
Mistake #2: Alienated Leadership – The Silent Killer of Agile Transformations

Jörgen Karlsson, Sep 3, 2024 | English

Imagine two worlds within the same organization. In one, leaders actively champion Agile transformation, embodying its principles, inspiring their… Read more

A male leader with his shadow shoing he is superman
Five Things Great Leaders Ask Themselves. Daily.

Agiletto AB, Aug 27, 2024 | English

Leadership isn't just about guiding a team or setting a vision. It's about constantly challenging your assumptions and asking yourself: Am I truly… Read more

Confused Scrum Master with too many name tags.
Is the Scrum Master Role Obsolete?

Jörgen Karlsson, Aug 22, 2024 | English

The role of the Scrum Master is often misunderstood and undervalued in many organizations adopting Agile. Many mistakenly view the Scrum Master as… Read more

Scrum Master looking confused with reluctant team in stand-up meeting, all are upset, some members looking at the floor
What to Do When Your Team Says They Do Not Need a Daily Standup

Jörgen Karlsson, Aug 20, 2024 | English

Introduction "Why are we even having these meetings?" Paula asked, addressing the elephant in the room. Some team members stared down at the floor… Read more

No Vision, No Victory. A man standing in front of a window looking out, trying to see the vision.
Mistake #1: No Vision, No Victory – The Root Cause of Agile Transformation Failure

Jörgen Karlsson, Aug 12, 2024 | English

In the bustling corridors of an unnamed company within the automotive industry, the mood had shifted from vibrant innovation to palpable uncertainty… Read more

Businessman gagged with yellow caution tape holding his head in his hand
Most Agile Transformations Fail: 12 Common Mistakes Revealed

Jörgen Karlsson, Jul 23, 2024 | English

In the dynamic world of organizational change, the journey toward Agile transformation emerges as both a beacon of hope and a realm brimming with complexities… Read more

Ineffective people in front of a big scrum board or kanban board
9 Daily Stand-Up Myths Busted: Transform Your Agile Meetings

Jörgen Karlsson, Jul 16, 2024 | English

The daily stand-up, also known as the daily huddle or Scrum meeting, is a cornerstone of agile practices. Despite its simplicity, this brief daily… Read more

Lazy person in a hammock reading a book
Top 5 Must-Read Books for Continuous Learning in Agile 2024

Jörgen Karlsson, Jul 2, 2024 | English

Whether relaxing in a hammock, lounging by the pool, or taking a break from work, summer is the perfect time to dive into some transformative reads… Read more

Lead By Example, check mark and person
The Subtle Art of Leading by Example—Even When No One is Watching

Jörgen Karlsson, Jun 25, 2024 | English

The subtle yet powerful art of leading by example, especially when no one is watching, is key in agile leadership. It extends beyond influencing people… Read more

To complement the concepts discussed in this article, the following image illustrates the modern approach to achieving excellence within an organization. It symbolizes the integration of various elements that contribute to a Center of Excellence, such as strategic planning, continuous improvement, and innovation.
How to structure your product backlog – for any team or organization

Jörgen Karlsson, Jun 11, 2024 | English

Have you ever been confused about the best way to write a product backlog item? Have you found that stories may not always be enough, and just grouping… Read more

To complement the concepts discussed in this article, the following image illustrates the modern approach to achieving excellence within an organization. It symbolizes the integration of various elements that contribute to a Center of Excellence, such as strategic planning, continuous improvement, and innovation.
From Good to Great: How Centers of Excellence Propel Agile Success

Jörgen Karlsson, Jun 11, 2024 | English

In today’s hyper-competitive and rapidly evolving business landscape, organizations must continuously innovate and adapt to stay ahead. At the heart… Read more

Product Owner written on a paper
Beyond Scrum: Is it Time to Remove the Product Owner Role?

Jörgen Karlsson, May 31, 2024 | English

The Product Owner is one of the most misunderstood roles in Scrum or other agile methodologies. Is the solution to remove the role entirely? That is… Read more

A person using a computer. Text: from projects to products
The Fatal Flaw in Your Agile Strategy – Why Organizing around Products Isn’t the Answer

Jörgen Karlsson, Feb 18, 2024 | English

In recent years, there has been a significant shift from project-based to product-based organizational structures. This movement has gained momentum… Read more

the seven SAFe core competencies
SAFe® in five minutes: A Toolbox for Continuous Learning and Improvement

Jörgen Karlsson, Jan 26, 2024 | English

Imagine your organization moving with the grace of a well-rehearsed dance, each step in perfect sync with the changing tempo of market demands. This… Read more

A group of people smiling with thumbs up
The Power of Collaborative Decision-Making: Implementing the Advice Process in Teal Organizations

Jörgen Karlsson, Nov 13, 2023 | English

Do you find yourself frustrated with traditional decision-making processes? Are you tired of the top-down approach that stifles creativity and innovation… Read more

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Five Things You Need to Know About Teal: The Future of Organizational Development

Jörgen Karlsson, Sep 21, 2023 | English

Photo: © whyframeshot / Adobe Stock If you're like most people in the agile community, you've been hearing a lot about Teal lately. But what is Teal… Read more

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Why Starting with Yourself is the Secret to Achieving Lasting Organizational Transformation

Jörgen Karlsson, Jan 31, 2023 | English

Unlock the secret to sustainable organizational transformation with the “Conscious Transformation” approach. This method prioritizes personal growth… Read more

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