Building software is an inherently chaotic and complex endeavor. To control the chaos and introduce predictability, leaders often introduce processes. A natural consequence of a process is to reduce human discretion and decision making. This can be a good thing, such as when a pilot uses checklists before taking off. But adding process can also have a cost.

And when a process is introduced, it’s important to remember that humans are the ones who implement and live with the process. So how do you introduce a process humanely? In this talk, we’ll delve into the human cost of introducing processes and how to do it well, if at all.

Personal reflection

Think about the processes at your company today.

Can you think of one that might not serve its original purpose any longer? Or one that might benefit from some rethinking based on where you are today?