You are leading a product development project using a hybrid approach where design and development follow Scrum, but manufacturing and supply chain operate in predictive phases. A key team member from manufacturing, who has 20 years of experience, consistently questions agile practices in cross-functional meetings, stating 'this would never work in the real world' and 'we tried this before and it failed.' This is creating doubt among other team members and reducing engagement in collaborative planning sessions. The manufacturing manager confirms this person's technical expertise is critical to project success. What is the most appropriate way to address this?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct answer is A. Having a private conversation (option A) shows respect for the individual's experience while creating a safe space to understand legitimate concerns that may have valid technical foundations. This approach allows you to address the resistance without embarrassment, potentially convert a critic into an advocate by incorporating their insights, and clarify expectations for constructive participation—all critical for maintaining both team dynamics and access to essential expertise. Option C is tempting because transparency and open discussion are generally positive, but publicly addressing this creates a confrontational dynamic that may entrench resistance and embarrass the individual, likely worsening rather than resolving the situation. Options B and D avoid your direct leadership responsibility and risk losing valuable expertise and institutional knowledge that may actually reveal important considerations for the hybrid approach.

More People Questions