a·gen·tic a·gil·i·ty

1 thing that sinks a consulting engagement before it starts gaining traction?

TL;DR; Overly detailed contracts that specify exact deliverables, timelines, and costs can undermine consulting engagements because they do not account for the unpredictable nature of software development. Focusing on outcomes and the value delivered, rather than rigid outputs, leads to better results. Development managers should prioritize flexibility in contracts to adapt to changing requirements and ensure project success.

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The Double-Edged Sword of Consulting Contracts

Hello, Agile and Consulting Community!  Today, we will discuss navigating the pitfalls of gaining traction for your consulting engagement.  ⚔️

We often ponder the elements that can sink a consulting engagement right from the get-go.  The answer lies where you least expect it.

Buckle up, let’s explore!

Over-Specifying in Contracts: A Common Pitfall

The moment “your contract states exactly what needs to be delivered, when, and at what cost, you’re already in deep trouble, right?”  🚩

You might believe that outlining everything in black and white gives you a sense of security, but in reality, it’s quite the opposite.  In the consulting world, being too prescriptive in contracts can be the first nail in the coffin.

Uncertainty in Product Development

Why is this a problem?

Because that’s not the reality of the unpredictable nature of building products that don’t exist yet.

Projects are constantly evolving; requirements shift and unforeseen challenges arise.  When a rigid contract shackles you, you’re just going to have a bad time.

Changing the Focus: Outcome Over Output

The solution is to flip the script.  🎯

You’ll want to talk about the ‘outcome’.  For example. - What is it that you’re going to achieve?  What value are you going to deliver to the customer?

By focusing on what matters—the actual value and end results—everything else is irrelevant.

Unlock Consulting Mastery with Agile and Scrum Courses

Don’t fall into the contract trap.  Equip yourself with the agility and foresight to handle the unpredictability of consulting engagements.

My Agile and Scrum courses offer this much-needed perspective.  Ready to redefine your consulting approach?  Enroll today! 🌟

👉 Transform Your Consulting Career Now!

The thing that will completely sink your consulting engagement before it gets started is the contract. If your contract states exactly what needs to be delivered, when, on what cadence, and how much it’s going to cost, you’re already screwed. That’s not the reality of the unpredictable nature of building products that don’t exist yet.

If you sign up to those contracts, you’re just gonna have a bad time. Make sure that you think about how you don’t want anything in your contract that specifies exactly what you’re going to deliver and when. You want to be talking about the outcome: what is it you’re trying to achieve and what value are you going to deliver to the customer? Everything else is irrelevant.

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