Understanding Scrum through Shu Ha Ri: Breaking Free from the Shu Box

In the vibrant city of Hamburg, where tradition meets modernity, the innovative offices of ReG Inc. stand tall. This isn’t just any company; it’s the powerhouse behind the SuS Suite. Amidst the buzz of activity, two individuals shine brightly: Howard, the earnest Scrum Master 🖥️, and Britta, the astute Agile Coach 📊. Together, they are on a quest to optimize the agile practices of ReG Inc. and ensure that the SuS Suite remains at the pinnacle of its domain.

ReG Inc. isn’t just a tech hub; it’s a beacon of innovation, a place where ideas transform into reality 🌟. But as with every journey towards excellence, there are hurdles to overcome and challenges to face 🌩️. Enter Howard and Britta, the dynamic duo, ready to tackle any obstacle with wit, wisdom, and a dash of humor.

Eager to delve into their world of agile discussions and insightful banter? Well, you’re in for a treat! Let’s eavesdrop on one of their engaging conversations and learn a thing or two!

In an office, Howard sits concentrated in front of his computer and checks some Scrum documents, when Britta comes in with a cup of coffee…

Britta: Hey Howard, how’s it going? I’ve been watching how you’ve been working with the team over the last few weeks. You’ve been working really hard and I’ve noticed that you’re sticking very closely to the Scrum rules.

Howard: Oh, hey Britta. Yeah, I’m just trying to make sure that everything goes according to plan. I’ve learned that it’s important to follow the rules closely, especially when you’re new to the role.

Britta: That’s absolutely understandable. The basics are extremely important. But how do you feel about it? Do you think it always fits, or were there times when you felt that some flexibility would be good?

Howard: Well, sometimes there are certainly challenges. But I thought if I followed the rules exactly, I couldn’t go wrong.

Britta: That’s a common thought, especially when you’re new to a role. But let me tell you about a concept called “Shu Ha Ri”. Have you ever heard of it?

Howard: No, it doesn’t ring a bell. What is it?

Britta: It’s a concept from Japanese martial arts that describes the learning process. “Shu” is the initial phase where you learn the basic rules and follow them strictly. Sometimes people can get stuck in this phase, it’s called “Trapped in the Shu Box”.

Howard: Trapped in the… Shu Box? Sounds like a shoe box! (laughing)

Britta: (smiling) Exactly that! It’s like being stuck in a shoe box all the time, not knowing that there are so many other kinds of shoes – or in this case, ways of working. It’s not about breaking the rules, but understanding when and how to be flexible.

Howard: That sounds interesting. But how do I find out if I’m stuck in this “shu box”?

Britta: Well, it’s about being open to feedback, reflecting and constantly evolving. And I’m here to help you with that!

Howard: Thank you, Britta. It’s good to know that I’m not alone. Let’s open this shoebox and see what we find!

Britta: That’s the spirit, Howard! Let’s continue this journey together and always find the best way for the team.

As the sun sets over the Hamburg skyline, another enlightening day at ReG Inc. comes to a close. Howard and Britta, the agile stalwarts, have once again demonstrated the importance of communication, adaptability, and continuous learning.

If you found yourself nodding in agreement or chuckling at their banter, you’d be thrilled to know that their adventures are further chronicled in the book “Follow… the path of Ray, Howard, and Britta” Dive deeper into their agile journey, replete with invaluable insights, anecdotes, and agile wisdom.

In this ever-evolving tech landscape, one thing remains certain: change is inevitable. And as we’ve seen from our agile aficionados, Howard and Britta, the key is not to resist but to adapt, innovate, and occasionally, share a hearty laugh over a cup of coffee ☕. Stay agile, and until next time!