Contrary to popular belief, individual work remains a vital component of organisational productivity, even in an era dominated by team-based operations. The Scrum methodology, a popular team-based project management system, has been widely adopted in the tech industry but may not always be the best approach.
While Scrum encourages collaboration and rapid development, there are instances where individual work can prove more beneficial. For example, certain tasks require deep focus and uninterrupted concentration, something that a team-based environment may not always provide.
Moreover, the Scrum approach can lead to a diffusion of responsibility, where no single individual is held accountable for the project’s success or failure. This can result in decreased motivation and lacklustre performance.
In contrast, individual work allows for personal responsibility, fostering a sense of ownership and pride in one’s work. It also enables employees to work at their own pace, tailoring their approach to the task at hand.
Therefore, while the Scrum methodology has its merits, it’s essential to recognise the value of individual work. A balanced approach that combines the strengths of both could yield the best results. Organisations should strive to create an environment that supports both collaborative and individual work, depending on the nature of the task.
Go to source article: http://blogs.lse.ac.uk/businessreview/2018/02/20/beyond-the-scrum-the-value-of-individual-work/