The foundation of any effective business-IT partnership is shared understanding and mutual trust.
Conducting deep dives into market analysis, customer journey mapping, and financial model understanding is crucial.
Creating shared mental models and a common vocabulary helps alignment between business and technology teams.
Establishing psychological safety allows professionals to express concerns, admit knowledge gaps, and challenge assumptions.
Visibility through visual management tools like work boards, information radiators, and decision records enhances transparency.
Building relationships through interactions like Gemba Walks, communities of practice, job shadowing, and joint problem-solving sessions fosters trust.
A case study on American Airlines illustrates the success of transforming business-IT relationships through shared understanding and trust.
Deliberate efforts in creating this foundation pave the way for deeper collaboration and joint ownership of outcomes.
The post emphasizes that true partnership lies in people's relationships, not just processes or tools.
These practices ultimately lead to improved technical metrics, business outcomes, and team morale.