#NoSoftware + Attendants

Adding more developers to a team for more throughput seems like a no-brainer. But, just as theory of constraints teaches us that increasing capacity at non-bottleneck stations won’t improve overall throughput, simply hiring more developers does not address the throughput challenge when, as in most cases, development is not the constraint.

Enter the #NoSoftware approach – a perspective that challenges the typical software-centric thinking. The premise, that we should reduce or eliminate unnecessary software to achieve greater efficiency, echoes another emerging trend in tech leadership: the idea of “Maximising the Amount of Work Not Done.” Also known as “software last of all“.

At first glance, this might seem counterintuitive. After all, isn’t productivity about doing more? However, when applied strategically, focusing on what doesn’t need to be done can pave the way for streamlined operations and better outcomes. And no role embodies this concept better than the role of “Attendant” (NB. Role, not Job).

The Attendant’s Impact

While software developers are integral to translating requirements into code, Attendants focus on discerning and addressing the genuine needs of a wide range of Folks that Matter™, from customers and fellow team members to senior management. The role isn’t to delve deep into the intricacies of code (they can do that too, when necessary) but to simplify, streamline, and ensure that the tech team’s efforts are genuinely needs-driven. Here’s how Attendants make the difference:

1. Prioritising Genuine Needs: Amidst a sea of potential features, Attendants ensure that only those bringing significant value are pursued, eliminating unnecessary work.
2. Enhancing Communication:In the role of Attendant, developers act as conduits of clear communication between various parties, reducing misunderstandings and the subsequent need for rework.
3. Championing Simplicity: Attendants continually advocate for the simplest solution that effectively addresses the needs of the Folks that Matter™. And communicate and track them via trhe Needsscape. This philosophy speeds up development, minimises bugs, and ensures more reliable product delivery.
4. Curbing Over-Engineering: By always aligning solutions with the genuine needs of the Folks that Matter™, Attendants act as guardians against the pitfalls of over-engineering, ensuring products and their features remain focussed, relevant, user-friendly and cost-effective.

The #NoSoftware Synergy

The Attendant’s perspective on streamlining work resonates with the #NoSoftware approach. Both focus on the needs of the Folks that Matter™. By understanding and embracing the principles behind these ideas, organisations can focus on what truly matters, eliminating unnecessary noise and ensuring the delivery of impactful solutions.

Summary

Whether it’s the #NoSoftware approach or the invaluable role of Attendants, the tech world is shifting towards a more thoughtful, needs-oriented paradigm – and it will be a game changer.