Guide: Deciding as Late as Possible in Lean Software Development

What is 'Deciding as Late as Possible'?
This principle is part of the Lean Software Development methodology and states that decisions should be delayed until they can be made based on facts, not assumptions. By deferring certain decisions, you can avoid making unnecessary or incorrect choices, minimize waste and react more flexibly to change.

Why is it important?
Delaying decisions until the last responsible moment allows for more informed decision-making, enabling improved flexibility and risk management. It can lead to a greater ability to respond to customer requirements and market shifts, thereby enhancing competitiveness and increasing the likelihood of project success.

How does it work?
In Lean software development, teams try to delay decisions until the latest possible moment that doesn’t negatively affect the project. This is based on the principles of 'just-in-time' production and 'set-based' design, where decisions are made when they are most informed. It isn’t about procrastination, but waiting only until you have a clearer understanding of the problem at hand.

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Deciding as Late as Possible
When answering exam questions on this topic, remember not to confuse it with procrastination. Highlight its importance in risk management and in making informed decisions. Use real-life examples to illustrate the concept and benefits where possible. Be ready to discuss the potential challenges or drawbacks of this approach and how to overcome them. You may also need to compare this Lean principle with practices in other project management methodologies.

Remember: The ability to embrace change and adapt based on new information is a key tenet of Lean and Agile methodologies and is what this principle seeks to amplify.