The model is a result of coaching 250+ teams in tech and after 17 years developing software, managing projects, and training people.
What makes a dev team successful?
(based on 250+ dev teams)
Trust
Great teams create strong human relationships and a psychologically safe environment.
Although this is the most important aspect of a great team, it often remains hidden. Similarly to a tree, a team is as strong as its foundation – its roots.
To make the roots stronger, great teams manage the team’s communication, embrace disagreements & use conflicts as a tool, and make sure everyone feels they belong.
Results
Great teams have ways of working that lead to delivering quality results on time.
Regardless of how great the team climate is, the team is measured on results. The trunk is the visible part of the tree and it is what most dev teams focus on a daily basis.
To make the trunk stronger, great teams seek responsibility on a personal and team level, align on a clear and efficient process, and make sure everyone on the team is engaged.
Evolution
Great teams successfully navigate through and excel during uncertain and changing environments.
Teams live in an uncertain and constantly changing environment. Like a tree managing the storms, a team has to deal with external forces, unforeseen circumstances & constraints to continue evolving & delivering results.
To make the crown of the tree stronger, great teams experiment in the face of the unknown, adapt to the external forces, but make sure they are resilient at the same time.
see how strong your dev team is
We’ve developed TReE Team Scan based on the TReE Team Model.
It is a quick online self-assessment tool, revealing a snapshot of your team dynamics. It shows where your team is strong, where there are dysfunctions, what it handles well and what not. It also catches so-called leadership blind spots (e.g. if people are in apathy or step away from quitting).