How the fuck to be Agile?: a wakeup call… by Erwin Verweij is a blunt, funny, and necessary reality check for those of us who are frustrated with the current state of Agile. Once a flexible mindset focused on customer value and adaptability, Agile has turned into a rigid set of rituals sold by consultants and unquestioningly adopted by organisations. Verweij’s critique validates our frustrations, as he argues that Agile has lost its soul and its usefulness.
His main point is that most teams are doing Agile, not being Agile. They follow routines like daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and retros without questioning whether they are helpful. Frameworks like Scrum and SAFe are treated as gospel, even when they do not fit. Scrum is often misunderstood as a strict method rather than a set of principles. SAFe, in particular, is criticised for attempting to force Agile into traditional hierarchies, which can make transformations more expensive and less effective.
Verweij also tears into the obsession with metrics. Teams chase velocity, burn-downs, and roadmaps while losing sight of customer value. Many Agile efforts are merely internal busywork, such as completing numerous forms and attending endless meetings. Rituals replace outcomes. The irony is that Agile was meant to combat bureaucracy, not become a part of it.
A recurring theme is what Verweij calls “controlled autonomy” – a façade of freedom where teams are told they are empowered but are still closely monitored and micromanaged. For instance, teams may be given the freedom to choose their tasks, but their progress is constantly monitored and they are often directed on what to do next. Real agility, he argues, needs actual trust and decentralisation.
The writing is direct, irreverent, and refreshing. It will not suit everyone, especially those who prefer structure or shy away from strong language, but it cuts through the noise. This is not just a rant. It serves as a powerful wake-up call, motivating you to take action.
If Agile feels broken in your world, you are not imagining it. This book will help you see why and what to do about it.
źródło: Brave New Books
Verweij Erwin, How the fuck to be agile? A wakeup call…, Brave New Books, Amsterdam 2025.
UK-based veteran game producer with over 30 years in the industry, shipping dozens of titles across mobile, console, PC, VR and web. His credits span award-winning AAA games, top-grossing mobile hits, licensed blockbusters, cancelled projects, and infamous flops—each one a lesson. Based in Buckinghamshire, Rob writes the Substack 'Game Production Alchemist’ and spends late August each year at the 10/7 Bar, Tokyo Ranger Outpost, Black Rock City.