We’re thrilled to share feedback from our partners on how OPP’s communication strategies have driven successful collaboration and project outcomes.
At Open Path Partners, we believe that effective communication is the foundation of successful collaboration. Recently, we received valuable feedback from our partners about their experience working with us. Their insights have not only validated our communication strategies but also highlighted areas for growth. Here’s a glimpse into their perspective on our interactions.
Written Communication: Cloud-Based Team Communication
Our partners appreciated the efficiency and responsiveness of our cloud-based communication platforms:
- Prompt Responses and Collaboration: Partners noted that our team was quick to react to pull requests (PRs) and engage collaboratively. They found our use of screenshots and detailed responses particularly helpful, ensuring that written communication was both fast and effective.
- Resolving Complex Issues: When issues were too complex for written communication, we facilitated calls to address tensions quickly. However, our partners pointed out that not all team members could attend these meetings, missing crucial context. As an opportunity for growth, we aim to capture detailed notes from these calls and share them with any absent team members.
- Documenting Boundaries and Behaviors: Partners suggested that we could improve by documenting boundaries and unusual behaviors more clearly. This documentation will help prevent misunderstandings and ensure smoother interactions.
Visual Communication: Orange Cards on the Planning Board
Our use of orange cards on the planning board was highlighted as an effective visual communication tool:
- Capturing and Addressing Blockers: Partners appreciated the visual representation of tasks, which ensured that nothing was overlooked. They could discuss these items asynchronously, distinguishing between critical blockers and less urgent tasks.
- Visibility and Decision-Making: Having the orange cards visible on the board allowed us all together to address issues as needed. This visibility facilitated timely decision-making and kept everyone informed.
- Memory Aids: The cards acted as memory aids, preventing important tasks from being forgotten. While there were a few instances where partners felt they were “spinning their wheels,” the overall use of visual communication was seen as beneficial.
Verbal Communication: Video Calls
Our regular video calls were recognized as crucial for maintaining effective communication and collaboration:
- Demos and Weekly Sync-Ups: Partners found our weekly sync-ups and demos valuable for identifying undesired behaviors early and keeping everyone aligned. They appreciated having dedicated time for these meetings, particularly early in the week. Sharing demo videos further enhanced understanding and collaboration.
- Asynchronous Communication and Sync-Ups: While asynchronous communication was beneficial, the sync-up meetings ensured that everyone remained aware of ongoing activities. These sessions provided an opportunity to bounce ideas, collaborate, and address potential blockers.
- Value Beyond Original Intent: Initially, the intent of the sync-ups was to showcase completed tasks. However, partners noted that as the project progressed, the meetings evolved into a tool for identifying blockers, discovering new behaviors, and making joint decisions regarding potential scope increases.
- Managing Time: Some weekly sync-ups occasionally went over time. Partners suggested scheduling more frequent, shorter sync-ups to maintain focus and manage time effectively.
Our partners’ feedback has been instrumental in highlighting the strengths and areas for improvement in our communication strategies. The combination of written, visual, and verbal communication methods has created a comprehensive and responsive framework, driving effective collaboration and project success.
At Open Path Partners, we are committed to continuously refining our communication practices to enhance teamwork and achieve even greater success in future projects. We are grateful for our partners’ insights and look forward to applying these learnings to improve our collaborative efforts.
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