Description

Lean-Agile at Mid-Scale: FLEX Essentials introduces FLow for Enterprise Transformation (FLEX) applied to the mid-scale. By the end of the course, students will have learned collaboratively and deeply the essential aspects of this principles-based approach to mid-scale transformations.

FLEX is not a packaged solution. Rather, it is a way of achieving transformation by looking at the dynamics in the organization, the challenges being faced, and the intentions to removing blockages. It offers a collection of practices that will assist with achieving those intentions. By looking at the patterns of challenge and success, you can create a step-wise, tailored approach for transformation in your organization. 

The goal of FLEX is business agility: the ability to realize value quickly, sustainably, predictably and with high value. It enables you to pivot efficiently based on what you are learning as well as what the marketplace is doing.

Each section in the course focuses on one aspect of FLEX. There are a set of readings and videos that cover the topic. Then there is an assignment that helps students learn by doing something with their associates. Students discuss what they have learned with other students in the course and with Net Objectives consultants. 

By the end of the course, students will have learned collaboratively and deeply the essential aspects of this principles-based approach to mid-scale transformation. 

For more information, see the FLEX Essentials course description. 

A complete learning environment to help you succeed in a Lean-Agile transformation

  • Expand your understanding

    Skills, behaviors, understanding, continuous improvement, and collaboration skills

  • Discussions

    Discussions with fellow students and instructors to compare ideas and share insights

  • Learn by doing

    Each week, an assignment helps you learn by trying a specific exercise within your own context.

Course curriculum

  • 1
    Getting Started
  • 2
    Understanding Your Situation
    • Introduction
    • Introducing FLEX
    • Systems Thinking with Russ Ackoff
    • Flow: The Three Oiled Wheel Demonstration
    • Create Visibility
    • Understanding Your Situation: Assignment (Homework and Discussion)
  • 3
    Going from Concept to Realization
    • Introduction FREE PREVIEW
    • Business Agility
    • An Introduction to Minimum Business Increments
    • Value Stream Mapping
    • Value Stream Mapping: Getting to Root Cause
    • Sometimes, Agile Pilots Can Hurt a Transition
    • Going from Concept to Realization: Assignment (Homework and Discussion)
  • 4
    Transformation and Visibility of Work​
    • Introduction FREE PREVIEW
    • Guardrails
    • Visual Controls
    • Value Stream Impedance Scorecard
    • Mapping a Value Stream to a Kanban Board
    • Visibility of Work: Assignment (Homework and Discussion)
  • 5
    Starting with FLEX
    • Introduction
    • Starting with FLEX (Video)
    • Starting with FLEX: Assignment (Homework and Discussion)
  • 6
    For Whom Are You Creating Value?
    • Introduction FREE PREVIEW
    • The Agile Manifesto helped... but it's time to move on
    • Multiple Value Streams and Business Agility
    • For Whom Are You Creating Value: Assignment (Homework and Discussion)
  • 7
    Managing WIP