Companies constantly seek optimal solutions to meet and exceed client expectations while fostering innovation. One practical approach is adopting the dedicated team model in offshore or nearshore development to enhance performance, eliminate dependencies, and ensure superior deliverables.
Dedicated teams are formed to work remotely for a specific company. Whether the goal is to develop an application from scratch or inject fresh ideas into an existing project, companies often turn to team extensions. This is a crucial step in assembling a team of seasoned experts who analyze the nuances of the company’s business strategy and introduce optimal solutions within a specified timeframe, typically spanning several years or more.
With a strong blend of cutting-edge technology and industry expertise, there’s an increasing demand for professionals skilled in documenting newly developed software. As more companies adopt Agile software development methodologies, technical communicators must be prepared to overcome any challenges that may arise.
Whether you’re joining an existing team working on developed software or starting a project from scratch, keep these tips in mind for writing adequate documentation in an Agile environment:
Let the Team Hear You
Participate in all meetings, including grooming sessions, scrums, sprint planning, and sprint retrospectives. Ensure your voice is heard to align with the team’s progress and goals.
Plan Everything
While Agile’s flexibility may tempt technical communicators to forego detailed planning, careful preparation is crucial. Planning saves time and prevents last-minute rushes to complete topics. Equip yourself with a detailed estimation spreadsheet to manage your workload effectively.
Iterate Your Work
Use user stories as the foundation for your documentation topics. Adopt a topic-based writing methodology to create standalone issues, whether they are concepts, tasks, or references. If you’re considering a new approach or refining existing processes, explore resources and books on topic-based writing for valuable insights.
Be Ready for Change
In the Agile world, change is constant. Stay flexible, analyze the significance of updates, and implement corrections promptly. Pay close attention during meetings, thoroughly read emails, clarify requirements, and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Get Your Content Reviewed
Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) are vital in ensuring technical accuracy. Assign them the corresponding Product Backlog Items (PBIs) so they can review your documentation. This acknowledges their contribution and ensures the content meets technical standards.
Show It!
Participate in demo meetings that follow each sprint. Present your documentation and emphasize its value to end-users. Feedback from team members can help refine your content, ensuring it is more effective and user-friendly. After all, agility is all about teamwork.
One of the four principles of the Agile Manifesto—“Working software over comprehensive documentation”—often confuses technical communicators. This principle doesn’t refer to end-user documentation but to internal project documentation. While internal documentation should be concise, it must still be accurate and useful.
Working in Agile teams is rewarding and challenging. By honing your skills and staying adaptable, you can not only survive but thrive in this environment.