Don't blame the tools

28/10/2011

It always makes me laugh when someone who is seemingly unable to run a project correctly, points at a specific tool or technique that they applied incorrectly to the situation they were in and cast blame.  The old adage that a bad workman blames their tools (though worn and weary) still applies.

The flip-flap nature of the “Waterfall vs Agile” debate rattles on.  One group hurls insults at the other whilst the intelligent change agents get on and do what they need to do to get the change done.

If it’s taking you too long to chop down the tree with a hacksaw, change tools.  You could choose a chainsaw but be aware that switching tools does not come for free.  You will need to plan the change, ensure appropriate protective equipment is applied, that the people around you are aware of and are happy for the change to happen.  You could choose a spoon, but don’t blame the spoon when it becomes impossible to proceed. 

The intelligent choice of tool is a vital choice for any change manager.  Sure an Agile approach will work in a software development context of appropriate size, but it won’t work for a project to move an organisation from one building to another.  Choose the tools for the job.

And when you’ve chosen the tools, understand how governance should happen – how progress with the chosen tools is measured and how quality is assured.  Some tools will contain ‘in-built’ quality assessment; some will require other tools to keep them in check.  But again, the right tools for the right job. 

Don’t blame the tools when your choice of tools and application of them fails to yield the change you require.  For blame, look a little closer to home.

Author: Eliot Lincoln (Managing Director)

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