In this learning article, we will delve into the methodology of Flow, focusing on the implementation of its Unified Backlog System (UBS). UBS is a key component of Flow that harmonizes the direction of an entire organization by maintaining a single backlog that multiple teams can access. Let’s understand how to create and manage a UBS in your organization using Flow.
Step 1: Understand the Concept of UBS in Flow
The first step towards implementing a UBS is to fully comprehend what it means in the context of Flow. A Unified Backlog System is a singular list of all the tasks, ideas, or features that need to be addressed within the organization. This backlog is available for all teams to access, thereby aligning different projects and tasks within the organization towards a shared vision.
Step 2: Prepare your Organization’s UBS
A UBS is best designed when everyone involved has a clear understanding of the overall goals of the organization. Involve team members in this process, discussing projects, tasks, and features that need to be addressed. Develop a list that contains everything that needs to be done. This is the initial version of your UBS.
Step 3: Prioritize Tasks in UBS
Flow utilizes an AI-based dynamic allocation model to prioritize tasks within the UBS. It considers four factors:
- The determined value to target users,
- The complexity of the project or feature,
- The expertise of the team,
- The interdependencies between different tasks or projects.
This is a crucial aspect of Flow and should be carefully done, as it ensures that the right teams are allocated to the right tasks at the right time.
Step 4: Implement UBS in your Organization
Once your UBS is ready and the tasks are prioritized, it’s time to put it into action. It is crucial that the UBS is easily accessible to all teams and that they are trained to use it. Regularly update the UBS as new tasks come up, and projects or features are completed or modified.
Step 5: Managing your UBS
Managing your UBS is an ongoing process. With each new task or project, the UBS should be updated. Also, priorities may change over time, which means the AI-based dynamic allocation model should be rerun to reprioritize tasks.
Step 6: Continuous Improvement
Flow incorporates a principle known as Integrated Continuous Improvement (ICI), which should also be applied to your UBS. Continually look for ways to improve your UBS system, from the way tasks are listed and categorized, to how they’re prioritized and assigned. Regularly review your UBS process and make necessary improvements.
Implementing and managing a UBS using Flow is an innovative approach to task and project management that encourages efficient working, reduces unnecessary documentation, and allows for real-time updates and changes. By incorporating the principles of Flow, organizations can foster a more flexible and efficient working environment, ultimately leading to products that provide greater value to the target user.
