Agile Manifesto Values & Principles through a Military lens

Although the Agile Manifesto is not new (2001), it was a breakthrough document that drove a movement in software development. It’s a great document that holds up as well today as it did back in 2001, and can be applied across many fields of work (and life).

  • Agile Manifesto Values

The ADF (along with many other modern military organisations) have instilled similar values and techniques to train for an agile mindset.

Here is my view of how the Australian Defence Force utilises these same values in order to build small, strong, agile teams.

Individuals and Interactions Over Processes and Tools.

The Australian Defence Force’s approach towards individuals and teams is to put the focus on people and their ability, innovation, and energy to solve problems.

Working Solutions Over Documentation.

The Australian Defence Force’s approach towards individuals and teams is to put the focus on people and their ability, innovation, and energy to solve problems.

Customer Collaboration over Contract Negotiation.

The motto at Officer Training School (OTS) is “Accept Responsibility”. With that comes a level of understanding that you can delegate authority but not responsibility.

Responding to change over following a Plan.

An extreme, but effective way to begin an agile journey. Through training and discipline comes knowledge and strength. Lessons from the Australian Defence Force.