Daily Meeting

In Agile methodologies (often misconceived as a “methodology” but genuinely intended as a way of working), the Daily Meeting, commonly known as the Daily Standup, is a brief, focused gathering where team members align on progress and identify obstacles. Typically lasting 15 minutes, this meeting fosters communication and ensures the team remains on track toward its goals. In Scrum, it is referred to as the Daily Scrum.

Purpose of the Daily Standup

The primary objectives of the Daily Standup are to:

Share Progress

Team members succinctly understand the progress towards the goal and upcoming work.

Identify Blockers

Highlight any impediments that could hinder progress.

Coordinate Efforts

 Ensure all members are synchronized and aware of each other’s activities.

Structure of the Meeting

During the standup, each participant may address three key questions but can be free form and decided by the participants.

1. What did I accomplish yesterday to move towards the Sprint Goal?
2. What am I working on today to move towards the Sprint Goal?
3. Are there any obstacles impeding my progress toward the Sprint Goal?

This format promotes transparency and allows the team to raise issues swiftly.

Best Practices

Hold the meeting at the same time and location daily to establish a routine.

Time and Place

Keep It Brief

Standing during the meeting may encourage brevity and focus. 

Stay on Topic

Reserve detailed discussions after the standup to maintain momentum within the timebox.

Encourage Participation

Ensure all team members contribute, fostering a collaborative environment.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Turning It into a Status Update

The standup is for team coordination, not reporting to management.

Problem-Solving During the Meeting

Address complex issues separately to keep the standup concise.

Irregular Scheduling

Inconsistent timing can disrupt team rhythm and reduce effectiveness.

By adhering to these guidelines, Agile teams can leverage the Daily Standup or Daily Scrum to enhance collaboration, swiftly address challenges, and maintain alignment toward their objectives.