What Are Sprints in Scrum & How Do They Work?

What Are Sprints in Scrum & How Do They Work?

What are Sprints in Scrum? What are the four phases in a Sprint cycle? A Sprint is the core process within Scrum. Sprints are fixed lengths of time, usually one or two weeks, in which the team works on a particular task or tasks. The key values of the Scrum framework are developed and maintained inside Sprints. Sprints are where the work gets done, where value is created, and where people turn ideas into reality.  Here are the four phases of a Sprint cycle.

How Toyota’s Respect for People Goes Far

A Cooperative Business Model for Companies

What is Toyota’s “Respect for People” principle? How does Toyota treat its employees and supply chain partners? Toyota’s principle, “Respect for People,” is one of the two pillars of the Toyota Way. Jeffrey Liker, in his book The Toyota Way, illustrates how Toyota encourages this principle to build a better company. Read more on Toyota’s respect for people, most importantly its employees and supply chain partners.

Talent Shortages: How to Safeguard Against Them

Talent Shortages: How to Safeguard Against Them

Are you worried that your business could suffer from talent shortages in the future? What precautions can you take to prepare for potential staffing shortages? Talent shortages are sometimes unavoidable—especially in today’s world. If you’re not prepared, then losing employees could leave your business vulnerable. Here’s a look at the risks that come with talent shortages and how to mitigate them.

How to Create a Marketing Plan With Clear Objectives

How to Create a Marketing Plan With Clear Objectives

Are you having trouble setting objectives for your business? What is the key to knowing how to create a marketing plan? In The Marketing Plan, William M. Luther emphasizes the importance of setting goals for your business. He explains that an effective marketing plan should include three components: an outline of your business goals, the strategies you’ll use to achieve those goals, and measurable short-term objectives. Here’s how to create a marketing plan with Luther’s advice.

Why Organizational Culture Is Important

Why Organizational Culture Is Important

How much does your organization’s culture matter? Can it actually determine whether you succeed or fail? Ben Horowitz argues that organizational culture is paramount to success. He believes that the right culture will boost your business in three ways: by serving the vision, by providing a common purpose, and by combining with a product or service in a way that creates a huge impact. Keep reading to learn why organizational culture is important.

Marketing Message: How to Appeal to Your Audience

Marketing Message: How to Appeal to Your Audience

Do you have a product that you’re proud of? How should you use a marketing message to sell that product to a certain audience? A marketing message conveys the benefits of your product to your target audience. William M. Luther gives great advice on how to deliver your marketing message effectively in The Marketing Plan. Continue reading to find out how to create and deliver your marketing message.