The theme of #Agile2024 Agile Alliance Europe in Manchester is experimentation. I presented my case study on it and at Agile at the Beach. So the theme perfectly aligned with my talk:
“Don’t Go Chasing Waterfalls, Stick to the Experiments That Will Guide You”
In my case study, I solved the pain points of an organisation undergoing significant cultural change, co-creating sustainable transformation in an environment riddled with resistance and transformation fatigue. Easy to get lost in theories, frameworks, and shiny new operating models. But I aimed to cut through all of that and share the reality of a true transformation journey. Thus, the messy, experimentation part that doesn’t always make it to the spotlight.
We often go in as eager beavers hoping to change the world for the better. The reality is far from this. 𝐁𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 practical and pragmatic, calm and collected are needed over theory and idealism. My approach? It’s “My Continuous No-Waterfall, No BS Growth Approach”… Brought to life through storytelling, sound effects (thanks, Bevan!), experimentation, and audience participation to keep it interactive. This was the key highlight of my talk at the conference. So, I not only unveiled “My Approach”, but I walked attendees through the journey of solving business problems. Then I demonstrated how this approach positively impacted culture, enhanced teamwork, and fostered alignment between management and teams, ultimately enabling the organisation more agile, nimble and adaptable.
The total time for the session I delivered at Agile Alliance Europe Manchester was 75 minutes including quizzes, paired discussions, reflection time and Q&A. I was really pleased that this talk was a huge success with incredibly humbling feedback. First I delivered a version of this talk at Agile on the Beach. It received valuable feedback, which pushed me to invest an extra 30 hours into refining the presentation which was delivered in Manchester.
Reflecting on the Experience
The thing with conference talks: time, effort, and endless experimentation. No matter how much I prepare, I’m always refining and improving the talk to better suit the audience and context. As a coach, I firmly believe in staying coachable myself. I’m incredibly grateful for the feedback that helped polish the final version.
As I continue working with various organisations, my introspection deepens. Every new experience adds another layer to my understanding of change. I’ve come to realise that transformation or I prefer organisational growth isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, nor is it ever truly finished. It’s an ongoing, evolving process that requires patience, humility, and above all, collaboration and experimentation.
Change agents and agilists, remember: you’re not alone in facing resistance or setbacks. But we must always remind ourselves to do successful change with people, not to them. Involve those affected, create ownership, trust, and lasting impact. In closing, my journey—like yours—is far from over. Together, as we learn, adapt, and evolve, we must continue to put people at the heart of every transformation. That’s how real, meaningful change happens.
Giving Back to the Community
Beyond speaking at conferences, one thing I’m truly passionate about is giving back to the agile community. For over four years, I volunteered with the Agile Alliance. Then I was part of their Agile Coaching Ethics Initiative and their conference review team.
In 2023, I helped launch the first-ever Agile Alliance Europe Hub in Edinburgh, Scotland. I introduced a new way to promote speakers. I interviewed them through videos for my “Banter With” series and used LinkedIn Lives to support the conference. My primary reason for this: others who didn’t attend conferences gain an insight to a conference atmosphere. This approach is so successful that later Agile Prague commissioned me to market their conference in the same fresh, engaging style. There’s real power in hearing directly from the speakers about what their talks are all about. It’s a game-changer for attendees.
In addition to my work with Agile Alliance, I am also a reviewer for Scrum Alliance conferences. I believe deeply in the importance of investing in the next generation of agile practitioners. Our community is only sustainable if we focus on growth and knowledge-sharing. In conclusion, it’s essential to pass down what we’ve learned, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.
Advocating for Diversity and Inclusion
Another crucial part of my volunteering work: raising awareness for women and people of colour in the agile community. Because we must see ourselves represented. Diversity and inclusion are key to ensuring the future of agile. And I’m committed to doing my part to promote both! As I reflect on the journey so far, it reminded me that we all play a role in shaping the future of this community—whether through coaching, speaking, volunteering, or simply offering support. And every contribution matters.
If you made it to the end of this post, I’d love to hear from you! Do leave a comment and let me know your thoughts. As I continue this journey, I’m always open to new opportunities to collaborate, share what I learned. Or simply continue the conversation. If you’d like to work with me or explore how I can support your organisation’s transformation, feel free to reach out. I’d love to connect and help create meaningful change, together. So, connect with me or send me a message on LinkedIn!
By Vinnie Gill
https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinniegill/
