How do you ensure that everyone follows agreements in your company?
How Do You Ensure That Everyone Follows Agreements in Your Company?
In a dynamic workplace, especially within a tech company comprised of around 200 engineers, maintaining adherence to agreements can be quite the challenge. From company-wide objectives and values to product group definitions of done (DoD) and readiness (DoR), as well as community-specific norms like code review rules, it’s crucial to cultivate a culture where these agreements are not only recognized but actively followed.
As a manager overseeing 27 engineers, I’ve observed a common pattern: over time, many of these agreements tend to fade from the collective memory. For instance, we have a well-defined code review process that is introduced during onboarding. However, after a wave of new hires, I’ve noticed a significant number of team members are either unaware of this process or fail to prioritize it.
The Challenge of Compliance
Despite attempts to address this through one-on-one meetings, team gatherings, and broader company discussions, it often feels like we’re stuck in a loop, reiterating the same points without tangible improvements. Our company’s emphasis on speed can inadvertently overshadow the importance of adhering to these agreements. Many team members prioritize rapid shipping over following established protocols, leading to a culture where agreements become mere suggestions rather than binding commitments.
Are You Facing Similar Challenges?
If you find yourself in a similar situation, you’re not alone. Many companies grapple with maintaining compliance to established norms and agreements. It raises several questions:
- Are there consequences for not following the agreements?
- Have you asked team members why they don’t follow them? Do they understand the problems these processes are designed to solve?
- Considering the priority on fast shipping, are there processes that once made sense but now feel more like hindrances?
Strategies for Improvement
To combat this erosion of adherence to agreements, several strategies can be employed:
1. Centralize Agreements
Consolidate all agreements into a single, easily accessible document or platform. It’s essential to keep this repository up to date and ensure that it reflects the latest practices and expectations. This way, engineers can refer back to the agreements whenever they need a refresher.
2. Incorporate into Performance Reviews
Make adherence to these agreements a significant factor in compensation and performance reviews. By incentivizing compliance, you create a culture where following agreements is not just encouraged but rewarded. This will help emphasize their importance in the eyes of your team.
3. Set Expectations in Team Meetings
Hold regular all-hands or team meetings to set expectations and address any questions regarding the agreements. This provides a platform for open dialogue and ensures that everyone is on the same page. It’s also an excellent opportunity to clarify the purpose of each agreement and the problems they are intended to solve.
4. Include Contract Staff in the Conversation
If your team includes vendor or contract staff, ensure that their management also emphasizes adherence to these agreements. Otherwise, they may not feel the same commitment as full-time employees. For this to be effective, the entire team must embrace and value these agreements collectively.
5. Evaluate the Agreements Regularly
Lastly, it’s paramount to ensure that the agreements make sense. Regularly review them to eliminate any that are outdated or unnecessary. Clearly communicate which agreements are non-negotiable—such as maintaining respect within the team and upholding integrity and ethical standards.
The Key to Success
The strategies outlined above have been instrumental in my experience, but they require ongoing effort. Frequent reminders and refreshers are necessary, especially as teams evolve and new members come on board. Cultivating a culture of compliance takes time, effort, and a collective commitment to the values and agreements that drive your company forward.
In conclusion, maintaining adherence to agreements is essential for fostering a productive and harmonious workplace. By centralizing agreements, incorporating them into performance metrics, and ensuring open lines of communication, we can create an environment where everyone understands and values the importance of these commitments.
Good luck on your journey to strengthening adherence to agreements in your organization! If you have any insights or experiences to share, I’d love to hear them in the comments below.