Imagine we’re all working on different maps to build a giant Lego castle. One map shows a red tower in the east, another has it in the west. Confusion reigns! Having a single source of truth, like one central map for the castle, is crucial in Agile for a few reasons.
Firstly, it keeps us on the same page. We all refer to the same data (user stories, bug reports, epics), so everyone knows the latest information and avoids working on outdated info. This prevents wasted effort and ensures everyone contributes to the same vision.
Secondly, it fosters trust and transparency. When we have a central source everyone can access, there are no hidden agendas or surprises. This builds trust within the team and allows for open communication when issues arise.
Think of it like playing a game together. If the rules keep changing or everyone has a different rulebook, it’s frustrating and impossible to win. A single source of truth acts as our shared rulebook, keeping the game (and our project) running smoothly! By working from the same data, we can make informed decisions, collaborate effectively, and ultimately build a fantastic Lego castle (or a successful software product) together.
In doubt, try this:
- collect all the data you have available, make them visible in the same format
- Discuss the differences and select the best source (or try to merge them into one format)
- Stick to this source of data, don’t copy the data or open branches
Albrecht Günther 