Introduction to the Agile Project Manager

The last couple of weeks have been dedicated to writing The Agile Project Manager Introduction. And it got me thinking about great books I have read and how important the Introduction is. No pressure! Seriously, the Introduction is the place where you decide whether to take the book to the counter or put it back on the shelf. In virtual terms, it is the “preview” you can download for free on your tablet/iPad/Kindle. If you like what you see, you press “buy”. This is the author’s opportunity to convince you to buy. Without being all “oh, please buy my book”, but rather demonstrating the value of the book and leave the reader wanting more as well as knowing there is value to be found.

At one point I wondered whether I should be doing the Introduction LAST when I’m sure about all the content. But when you consider one of the most important principles of Agile:

Deliver the most amount of value as early as possible

… And also the question we are encouraged to ask:

Why would we do this work at all?

… Helped me understand the value and importance of the Introduction. Although shorter than a regular chapter, the Introduction delivers value on its own – that is I trust you will receive value even if that’s the only thing you read AND it serves the purpose of introducing you, the reader, to the book. So, yes, it’s almost written!

Once I work out how to send out a download link, it will be in the hands of the people who have chosen to subscribe, and I will look forward to gathering feedback and making it even better. In the meantime, in Agile style, the next chapter – Chapter 1 – will be planned out and writing will commence. I have also continued to speak with my “Yes And” people gathering feedback, thoughts and ideas. This has become my trusted team. You know who you are.

Thank you.