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The Inverse Conway’s Law: Are We Becoming the Software We Build?
Melvin Conway famously observed that software systems tend to mirror the communication structures of the organizations that create them. But have you noticed the reverse?
Organizations increasingly reflect the software they’ve built.
Check out how development organization in global enterprises is being set up — the big so-called agile frameworks like SAFe promote release trains with teams who center around the big legacies of IT — the SaaS monoliths.
With rigid workflows, siloed teams, and these legacy architectures, businesses may unintentionally limit their adaptability — especially with the transformative power of AI knocking at their doors.
The Challenge
AI paradigms require flexibility, cross-functional collaboration, and rapid experimentation. Yet, many organizations are constrained by software systems designed for an era of stability, not agility.
How can we start agentic thinking and how can we redesign the rigidity we have today?
Breaking the Pattern
Here are four ways to ensure your organization evolves beyond the constraints of its software and can start to leverage AI effectively:
