Note: This is a sarcastic post. Please do not get cranky :)

In the dynamic world of project management, especially within Agile and Scrum frameworks, clear and intuitive swim lanes are the backbone of a smooth workflow. They provide a visual representation of tasks as they progress from ideation to completion, fostering transparency and collaboration. But let's be honest, sometimes those standard labels – "To Do," "In Progress," "Testing," "Done" – can feel a little… well, bland.

What if you could inject a bit of personality and memorability into your project board? What if your swim lane names themselves could subtly reinforce your team's focus and drive? This is where the power of a catchy acronym comes in.

Today, we propose a refreshing approach to your swim lanes by exploring three compelling acronym options: BRITED, BRAVOS, and BRAINS. Each offers a unique flavor and can help your team connect with the workflow in a more engaging way.

Option 1: Embracing Progress with BRITEd

Imagine your tasks moving towards a brighter future. The BRITEd acronym focuses on the journey of refinement and successful delivery:

  • Backlog: The starting point, where ideas and tasks are first captured.
  • Refined: Tasks that have been groomed, prioritized, and are ready for action.
  • Impeded: Highlighting any roadblocks or dependencies that are currently preventing progress.
  • Tackling: Tasks that are actively being worked on by the team.
  • Evaluating: Work that is undergoing testing, review, or quality assurance.
  • Delivered: The final stage, signifying successful completion and deployment.

Choosing BRITEd can subtly emphasize the positive trajectory of your work, encouraging the team to push tasks towards that "brightened" outcome.

Option 2: Injecting Energy with BRAVOS

For teams that thrive on action and celebrate achievements, BRAVOS offers a more dynamic and celebratory feel:

  • Brainstorm: The initial stage of idea generation and task identification.
  • Ready Set: Tasks that are fully prepared and poised to be picked up.
  • Awaiting: Items that are currently on hold, perhaps waiting for external input or resolution.
  • Velocity: Work that is actively in progress, emphasizing the momentum of the team.
  • Outcome: Tasks that have gone through testing and are awaiting final sign-off based on their results.
  • Success: The triumphant completion of a task, ready for deployment or implementation.

Adopting BRAVOS can inject a sense of energy and accomplishment into your workflow, making each move across the board feel like a step towards a resounding "Bravo!"

Option 3: Focusing on Intellectual Flow with BRAINS

For teams that value thoughtful planning and successful execution, BRAINS offers a more cerebral and goal-oriented approach:

  • Backlog: The central repository of all potential work.
  • Ready for Action: Tasks that have been analyzed, understood, and are ready to be started.
  • Awaiting Unblock: Clearly identifying items that are currently stuck and require attention to remove obstacles.
  • In Motion: Work that is actively being developed or worked on.
  • Nearing Completion: Tasks that are in the final stages of testing and refinement.
  • Successfully Done: Confirmation of a task's successful completion and readiness for use.

Implementing BRAINS can subtly reinforce a focus on thoughtful progress and the ultimate successful outcome of each task.

Making the Switch: A Simple Yet Impactful Change

Renaming your swim lanes might seem like a small change, but it can have a surprisingly positive impact on team morale and engagement. A catchy acronym can:

  • Improve Memorability: Easier to recall and discuss the different stages of work.
  • Enhance Team Communication: Creates a shared vocabulary that is more engaging.
  • Boost Morale: Adds a touch of creativity and personality to the project board.
  • Reinforce Focus: Subtly guides the team's attention towards the desired flow and outcomes.

How to Choose?

Consider your team's culture and the overall tone of your projects. Do you want to emphasize progress, action, or intellectual rigor? Discuss these options with your team and let them have a say in the decision. The best acronym is the one that resonates most with the people who will be using it every day.

So, are you ready to level up your workflow? Consider embracing BRITED, BRAVOS, or BRAINS and watch how a simple change in terminology can bring a fresh perspective and renewed energy to your project management. It's time to make your swim lanes not just functional, but also fun and memorable!

Checkout our manifesto: https://github.com/rmoraes92/better-board-brigade-gospel