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> The reason is supposedly that my throughput is too low and inconsistent (stories completed per sprint). Spend some work hours optimizing for the metrics that

by palata 2y ago

> The reason is supposedly that my throughput is too low and inconsistent (stories completed per sprint). Spend some work hours optimizing for the metrics that the managers measure. The goal is not to make a good job, it's to optimize your metrics (i.e. screw the system). The more points you get, the less work you have to do. Make smaller stories, smaller tasks, overestimate the tasks, quickly contact the manager whenever a task is looking like it has been under-estimated and ask them to act on it (e.g. by splitting the task or modifying the estimate). And don't feel bad about it: your manager optimizes for their metrics as well. The goal is not to make a good product, it is to optimize the metrics that people who feel clever put in place. If your company ever realizes that employees abuse the metrics, the solution will be to fire managers, and that's not you. At the same time, actively look for another job.

giantg2 2y ago
The thing is, they don't have a metric for me to hit. For example, my throughput is the same as the other midlevel dev on the team who is doing well. If it was the metric, I'd be hitting it already (at least according to the only indicator I have for what that metric might be - the other dev doing well). Some sprints I'll close multiple stories because they don't have impediments. Then I hit sprints where my stories all carry over (yes, I'll have multiple open to fill the downtime, otherwise I'll get even more scrutiny). So my average is good, but my consistency isn't, and is basically beyond my control.
- sircastor 2y ago
  > The thing is, they don't have a metric for me to hit. Get this is writing. An email outlining specifically where you’re coming up short and the metric that works address it. Print that out in duplicate and keep a copy in a safe spot. If they can’t provide a metric you lay that at their feet and point out that you’re averaging out the same as others. If they do provide hard metrics, meet those (or evaluate if they’re trying to give you an impossible task) Don’t accept this as defeat. I was once notified that if I didn’t shape up I’d be put on a pip. I fixed it, and confirmed with my manager and project lead that everyone was happy. I was with that company for another couple of years. That said, assume that they are gunning for you and collect as much evidence as possible that counters what they’re saying. If they want to fire you, that’s their choice, but if you can refute what they’re saying and what they’ve asked you to do with evidence, you’re building a strong case for whatever your severance is going to be. Start looking for a job now. Work both ends of the situation. Good luck. I hope everything works out in spades for you.

by palata 2y ago

giantg2 2y ago

The thing is, they don't have a metric for me to hit. For example, my throughput is the same as the other midlevel dev on the team who is doing well. If it was the metric, I'd be hitting it already (at least according to the only indicator I have for what that metric might be - the other dev doing well). Some sprints I'll close multiple stories because they don't have impediments. Then I hit sprints where my stories all carry over (yes, I'll have multiple open to fill the downtime, otherwise I'll get even more scrutiny). So my average is good, but my consistency isn't, and is basically beyond my control.

sircastor 2y ago
> The thing is, they don't have a metric for me to hit. Get this is writing. An email outlining specifically where you’re coming up short and the metric that works address it. Print that out in duplicate and keep a copy in a safe spot. If they can’t provide a metric you lay that at their feet and point out that you’re averaging out the same as others. If they do provide hard metrics, meet those (or evaluate if they’re trying to give you an impossible task) Don’t accept this as defeat. I was once notified that if I didn’t shape up I’d be put on a pip. I fixed it, and confirmed with my manager and project lead that everyone was happy. I was with that company for another couple of years. That said, assume that they are gunning for you and collect as much evidence as possible that counters what they’re saying. If they want to fire you, that’s their choice, but if you can refute what they’re saying and what they’ve asked you to do with evidence, you’re building a strong case for whatever your severance is going to be. Start looking for a job now. Work both ends of the situation. Good luck. I hope everything works out in spades for you.