Understand the Importance of Sequencing Epics with WSJF

Understanding the Importance of Sequencing Epics with WSJF in Lean Portfolio Management

If you’re involved in Lean Portfolio Management, chances are you’ve come across the term WSJF—Weighted Shortest Job First. Now, you might be wondering, “What’s the big deal about sequencing Epics in a Portfolio backlog using this method?” Well, let’s unravel that together.

The Heart of the Matter: What WSJF Really Does

At its core, sequencing with WSJF is all about enhancing economic outcomes for your Portfolio. It sounds technical, but think of it as a fancy way of deciding which projects to tackle first based on their potential return on investment. If you can prioritize what’s going to yield the best bang for your buck, you’re already ahead of the game.

Here’s how it works: each Epic—basically a large body of work—is evaluated based on several crucial factors. First off, there's the potential benefits, or economic value, it brings. Next, we examine the urgency, which is measured by the cost of delay. Lastly, we consider the job size, essentially the complexity and duration of the task. By giving these factors their due consideration, you create a scoring system that helps you identify which Epics should be at the top of your to-do list.

Picture it this way: imagine you're at a buffet that offers multiple delicious dishes. Sure, you might be drawn to the rich chocolate cake, but can you really indulge if you haven’t had your greens first? You need to consider what will nourish you most efficiently—this is your WSJF approach in action. It’s about optimizing your choices in a way that's beneficial, sustainable, and satisfying.

The WSJF Framework: Why It Matters

Now, let’s break down the specifics of that scoring system. With WSJF, the highest scores go to the Epics that promise the most economic value while being the least complex or the most urgent. It’s a straightforward way to dodge the trap of shiny-object syndrome—where teams waste time on appealing but low-impact projects instead of focusing on what truly matters.

By concentrating on delivering the highest value tasks first, you’ll notice improved delivery times and better resource allocation. When your team is clear about what’s most important, it minimizes confusion and enhances productivity.

But hold on! It’s not that other methods or approaches don't have their place. For instance, managing a Portfolio also requires understanding business context or implementing effective governance policies. However, these elements, while valuable, do not hit the nail on the head like WSJF does when it comes to the principal goal of maximizing economic outcomes.

What about the Alternatives?

You might come across options that tackle budgeting, governance, or spending policies. They play an essential role in the broader management picture but don’t directly address the pressing need for economic optimization provided directly through WSJF. Similarly, generating estimates and deciding on capacity allocation are undeniably crucial parts of operational management—they are more tactical maneuvers rather than strategic moves toward economic benefits.

Consider budgeting like setting rules for a game. It’s vital, without a doubt, but if the game isn’t playing out in a way that’s fun or engaging, what’s the point? The excitement lies in the strategy, and that’s where WSJF shines.

Keeping Your Eye on the Prize: Economic Value

So, how do we continuously improve our focus on economic outcomes? A great starting point is ensuring that your understanding of value is clear and shared across your team. Creating a shared language around what economic value looks like helps keep everyone aligned and focused.

While you’re at it, don’t hesitate to communicate openly about the decisions being made. If a particular Epic ranks high on the WSJF scale, let your team know why it’s a priority. This communication fosters a culture of transparency and ensures that everyone is moving in the same direction.

Moreover, it can be easy to let subsequent Epics slide off the radar. Create checkpoints to reassess and potentially re-prioritize based on changes in urgency or economic value. The world of business is a moving target, and staying agile is key.

Final Thoughts: The Bigger Picture

At the end of the day, sequencing Epics in your Portfolio backlog using WSJF isn’t just a means to an end; it’s a systematic way to cultivate a mindset focused on economic improvement. It encourages teams to think strategically, fostering an environment where the aim is to deliver the most impactful work efficiently.

So, the next time you find yourself struggling over which Epic to tackle first, remember this: prioritize like you’re at that buffet, focusing on what will feed your Portfolio’s success. The more you implement WSJF in your strategies, the better your economic outcomes will be. After all, who wouldn’t want to serve up success on a silver platter?

With a bit of practice using these insights, you’ll not only embrace the nuances of Lean Portfolio Management but also elevate your organization’s game in the process. Keep pushing forward; the rewards are waiting!