Software development thrives on continuous discovery and adaptation; upfront planning can’t predict everything. Embrace uncertainty, deliver iteratively, and learn as you go.
One of the biggest fallacies in software is the belief that you can know everything upfront. That’s why some teams try to carve out “Design Sprints” to feel more in control.
But real product development doesn’t work like that. Discovery is continuous. Ideas evolve. Assumptions break. Value emerges through use.
That’s why Scrum embraces uncertainty. Refinement is your chance to explore future work just enough to be ready, without wasting time planning things that might never happen.
Build just enough design to support delivery. Then deliver. Get telemetry. Learn. Repeat.
If you’re spending more time designing than delivering, you’re likely optimising the wrong part of the system.
If you've made it this far, it's worth connecting with our principal consultant and coach, Martin Hinshelwood, for a 30-minute 'ask me anything' call.
We partner with businesses across diverse industries, including finance, insurance, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, technology, engineering, transportation, hospitality, entertainment, legal, government, and military sectors.
Cognizant Microsoft Business Group (MBG)
Boeing
Genus Breeding Ltd
Kongsberg Maritime
Xceptor - Process and Data Automation
Milliman
Jack Links
Philips
Ericson
Illumina
Trayport
SuperControl
Workday
Big Data for Humans
YearUp.org
CR2
Bistech
Emerson Process Management
Nottingham County Council
Royal Air Force
Washington Department of Transport
Ghana Police Service
Department of Work and Pensions (UK)
New Hampshire Supreme Court
Sage
Big Data for Humans
Schlumberger
Illumina
Trayport
Philips