“Sometimes you want to go … where everybody knows your name”
Whether you are a solo Scrum Master in a small company or one of many Agile coaches in a massive transformation, the Agile journey can be a long and lonely one. Sometimes we just need to ask a quick question or to get an objective perspective on a sticky problem.
When we are supporting change and holding space for others, we all need a listening ear and wisdom from others who have been in our shoes. Agile Advice is a dedicated area that enables Agile2022 attendees (advice-seekers) to have a one-on-one conversation with an experienced Agilist (advisor) to help with questions or issues on their journey.
The purpose of the Agile Advice program
Agile Advice began at Agile2017 and was originally named Agile Therapy. Agile Alliance designed this experience to provide a welcoming atmosphere and to support those at the conference who were early in their Agile journey by connecting them (and other attendees) with a roster of experts to discuss topics and challenges they were facing.
Agile Therapy created an environment where attendees could relax, mingle, and have some really impactful conversations. We re-branded this offering to “Agile Advice” following feedback from participants.
Over the years we have continued to refine the offering after working with advice-seekers and advisors alike.
This year’s Agile Advice program
This year, the Agile Advice area will be open Monday-Thursday from 9am–5pm, with appointments available from 11am–3pm. In semi-private 15-minute sessions with seasoned Agilists, you can discuss the challenges in your Agile journey. Just stop by, sign up for an appointment, and give us a short description of your challenge. The Agile Advice team will pair you with the best advisor available to discuss your issues! Appointments fill up fast, so stop by early.
When you sit with your advisor, the time is yours to bounce ideas around, ask for advice, or just vent and be heard. You can ask directly for advice, and we may ask questions. That said, we are not taking a Socratic approach to your problem.
All work-related topics are welcome! In the past, some visits have focused on organizational challenges and interpersonal dynamics. Others have focused on user experience concepts and retrospective approaches.
Advisors will give their best recommendations based on their experience. Sessions are judgment-free and confidential, and you have our word that you will not be sold products or services.
What’s new for Agile2022?
If you’re an Agile Advice alumnus who has visited us in past years, here are some key changes from past years:
- Added capacity for advice during the lunch hours
- Addition of “appointment reminder” cards to advice-seekers with their timeslot and a few reminders.
Who are these seasoned Agilists?
We love our advisors! These kind souls volunteer their time and experience to further the overall Agile community. Advisors commit to one-hour blocks of advice time, with the option to schedule multiple blocks. If you are interested in volunteering to be an Advisor, you can apply here.
Fun fact
Instead of capturing feedback with a form, we ask participants to fill out a sheet after their session. This page has a simple statement that says, “After Agile Advice, I feel:” with room for a few words, but also space to draw a picture. We love your feedback and love the creativity that our advice-seekers always demonstrate!
For more information about visiting or volunteering for Agile Advice, contact the program team and we’ll get you connected.
See you in Nashville!
