Apr 29, 2022
Nov 10, 2023

Improving Agile Workflow with Real-Time Dashboarding

As New Zealand's largest electricity and natural gas retailer, our client caters to over half a million customers.

Their expansive reach in the electricity sector is backed by a robust generation infrastructure, comprising hydroelectric, thermal, and wind assets.

The Challenge

Our client had recently adopted an Agile working methodology to enhance their teams' responsiveness to changing requirements, deliver value faster, and improve processes and outcomes.

They aimed to achieve flexibility and speed in their operations. With multiple teams working collaboratively, it was vital to gauge the capacity and identify any workflow roadblocks. Although they utilized Azure DevOps—a tool rich with essential data—they weren't maximizing its benefits. They sought a real-time dashboard that could clearly visualise the flow of work and spotlight areas for improvement.

Our Approach

  1. Collaboration First: Our initial step was a deep-dive discussion with the client to refine and pinpoint the metrics that truly matter. Recognizing that Agile was new terrain for them, we ensured every stakeholder had a say in the dashboard's design and metrics, embodying the principle of "measure what matters."
  2. Data Quality Resolution: After refining the metrics and understanding the required data, we identified gaps and inconsistencies. Addressing this head-on, we proposed strategies to refine data capture and reduce errors, ensuring the dashboard would be both accurate and insightful.
  3. Staged Development: Recognising the importance of user adoption, we developed the dashboard in iterative stages, introducing different insights/tabs progressively. This approach allowed us to gather invaluable feedback from users about their questions and needs, guiding the direction for the next phase.

The Outcome

Our agile workflow dashboard gave up-to-the-minute insights.

This helped the client see how things were going right away and find places they could do even better. Plus, it encouraged everyone to record data more accurately.

Key Client Benefits

Instant Insights

The dashboard presented a real-time snapshot of team dynamics and potential bottlenecks, allowing for timely adjustments.

Unified Understanding

With a standardised measurement system, there was a clear, consistent framework for evaluating team performance, fostering better communication and decision-making.

Improved Overall Efficiency

By offering clear insights into team workflows, the dashboard became an invaluable tool in streamlining processes, improving overall efficiency.

Elevated Data Practices

With a renewed emphasis on the importance of data, teams became more vigilant and accurate in their data recording habits.