+++ title = "How do you ensure that everyone follows agreements in your company?" date = 2024-09-15 +++ # How to Ensure Adherence to Agreements in Your Company In a bustling tech company with around 200 engineers, it can be a challenge to ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding the various agreements that guide our work. From company-wide objectives and values (such as OKRs) to product group definitions of done (DoD) and rules within coding communities (like code review standards), these agreements are crucial for maintaining a cohesive and efficient work environment. However, as I've learned in my role managing 27 engineers, many of these agreements tend to fade from memory over time. ## The Challenge of Maintaining Agreements Despite the initial training and onboarding that covers these agreements, I’ve noticed a troubling trend: as we welcome new hires and experience changes within our teams, many engineers either forget these agreements or view them as optional. This has become particularly apparent in our code review process, which seems to slip through the cracks in the hustle to ship fast. In our fast-paced product company, the emphasis on speed often overshadows the importance of adhering to established processes. This is understandable; after all, shipping quickly is often seen as the top priority. However, a lack of adherence to agreements can lead to inconsistencies, misunderstandings, and ultimately a decline in product quality. ## My Attempts to Address the Issue I’ve tried various approaches to tackle this issue, including conducting one-on-one meetings, team discussions, and even addressing it at company-wide gatherings. Yet, it often feels like I’m stuck in a cycle of repeating the same conversations without achieving lasting change. So, how can we ensure that everyone in our company not only remembers these agreements but actively follows them? ## Strategies for Enhancing Adherence to Agreements Here are some strategies that I believe can help foster a culture of adherence to agreements within our teams: ### 1. **Centralize All Agreements** Consolidating all agreements in one accessible location is paramount. This resource should be kept up to date and easily navigable, allowing team members to reference it whenever needed. A well-organized repository can serve as a constant reminder of the expectations we’ve set together. ### 2. **Incorporate Agreements into Performance Reviews** Making adherence to these agreements a significant factor in compensation and performance evaluations can incentivize team members to prioritize them. When engineers understand that following the established processes is tied to their professional growth and recognition, they are more likely to take them seriously. ### 3. **Set Expectations in Team Meetings** Holding all-hands or team meetings dedicated to setting clear expectations can foster open dialogue. This is a great opportunity to address any questions or concerns and to remind everyone of the importance of these agreements. Regularly revisiting these topics can help keep them fresh in everyone’s minds. ### 4. **Engage Vendor and Contract Staff** If your team includes contract or vendor staff, ensure that their management understands the importance of these agreements as well. Engaging them in the same expectations will help create a more cohesive team dynamic. It’s vital that everyone, regardless of their employment status, cares about adhering to the agreements in place. ### 5. **Evaluate the Relevance of Agreements** It’s crucial to periodically assess whether the agreements we’ve established still make sense. Are there processes that were once relevant but now hold us back? Ensuring that our agreements are practical and beneficial will encourage adherence rather than resistance. ### 6. **Clarify Non-Negotiable Agreements** Lastly, it’s essential to communicate which agreements are non-negotiable. For example, maintaining a respectful and ethical work environment should always be a priority. By setting clear boundaries, we can foster a culture of accountability and respect. ## Conclusion While maintaining adherence to agreements can be a challenging task, it is essential for ensuring a successful and efficient working environment. By centralizing agreements, incentivizing adherence, engaging all team members, and continuously evaluating the relevance of our processes, we can create a culture that values these commitments. Frequent reminders and refreshers will be necessary as teams evolve, but with consistent effort and open communication, we can ensure that our agreements are not forgotten but embraced as integral parts of our workflow. What strategies have you found effective in your own organizations? Let’s share our experiences and learn from one another. Good luck!

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