For years, I’ve slowly changed from “not much of a reader” to a devouring bookworm, and this habit has changed my life. If you’re short on time but want to significantly enhance your Agile knowledge and skills in 2024, I’ve got you covered. Each book on this list has drastically improved the way I approach my professional life and personal mindset. They cover a range of crucial topics, from DevOps to scaling high-performance organizations, and embracing a more agile mindset in business settings. Here are my top recommendations that are well worth your money, time, and attention.
The DevOps Handbook: How to Create World-Class Agility, Reliability, & Security in Technology Organizations
By Gene Kim, Patrick Debois, John Willis, and Jez Humble
The DevOps handbook is not just about unifying software development (Dev) and software operation (Ops); it’s a detailed guide to implementing DevOps principles and practices in a way that improves software delivery and collaboration. It provides readers with real-world examples, case studies, and best practices to deploy DevOps in their organizations effectively. A standout feature is its practical approach to automating workflows and creating a culture of continuous improvement.
The Phoenix Project: A Novel About It, Devops, And Helping Your Business Win
By Gene Kim, Kevin Behr, and George Spafford
Through the lens of a fictional narrative, this novel offers a deep understanding of IT management and the necessity of DevOps. It’s a compelling read that explores how the principles of DevOps can resolve real-world issues in business IT environments. The storytelling format makes complex concepts accessible and engaging, which is perfect for those new to DevOps or those looking to gain a different perspective on its impact.
Accelerate: Building and Scaling High Performing Technology Organizations
By Nicole Forsgren, Jez Humble, and Gene Kim
“Accelerate” is an eye-opener and game-changer for everyone involved in software development. Focusing on the science of lean, continuous delivery, and DevOps, Forsgren provides empirical evidence showing why teams that apply best practices like test automation, continuous integration, loosely coupled architectures, and team empowerment outperform those that don’t. It is definitely a great read for anyone who wants to help their organization deliver quality software quickly.
Team Topologies: Organizing Business and Technology Teams for Fast Flow
By Matthew Skelton and Manuel Pais
Team Topologies is a practical, step-by-step guide for organizational design and team interaction. It introduces four fundamental team types and three team interaction patterns to optimize team structure and enhance organizational agility. If your company is struggling with how to organize its teams, this book offers priceless food for thought! Its pragmatic approach is really refreshing.
Doing Agile Right: Transformation Without Chaos
By Darrell K. Rigby, Sarah Elk, and Steven H. Berez
This guide demystifies the process of implementing Agile in a way that balances stability and agility. It’s particularly useful for businesses that are transitioning from traditional project management methods to agile frameworks. The authors offer insights into how Agile can enhance productivity without causing disruption and chaos. In my view, it is a must-have guide for any organization trying to do Agile right!
Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time
By Jeff Sutherland
As one of the co-creators of Scrum, Jeff Sutherland offers a fundamental look at this Agile framework through engaging stories and real-life examples. This book breaks down how Scrum can be used not only in software development but also in various other industries to improve efficiency and productivity.
Coaching Agile Teams: A Companion for ScrumMasters, Agile Coaches, and Project Managers in Transition
By Lyssa Adkins
A hands-on guide for Agile coaches and Scrum Masters, this book explores the mindsets, skills, and tools needed to provide effective guidance and support to agile teams. It’s filled with practical advice to help facilitate all phases of the agile process and bring out the best in their teams. Within the Agile community, this book is often regarded as the bible for all Agile coaches and Scrum Masters—a must-have that is worthy of rereading several times.
Well, there you have it. The best Agile books worth to read in 2024! 📚💯
If you are considering to become a certified Scrum Master check out this Article
▶ Scrum Master Certification: CSM vs. PSM vs. SSM – Choosing the Best for 2024 – The Agility Pulse
