Summary
In 1993 Don Norman coined the phrase User Experience (UX), suggesting software be built with user’s needs at the core. In 2001, Agile was formally introduced as a framework to accelerate and improve software development. We’ve come a long way in 20 years, but there’s often still questions about how UX and Agile fit together. In this session we’ll share best practices we’ve found helpful in creating alignment, managing workflow, and improving outcomes. The goal is not to endorse a specific framework but to speak broadly to agile concepts and their application for UX practitioners in navigating the Agile landscape.
Key Insights
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Integrating UX in Agile requires distinct team models depending on project size and scope.
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The shared service model for UX supports multiple Scrum teams with specialized roles, boosting fluid collaboration.
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UX practitioners must selectively attend Agile ceremonies that have relevant UX dependencies to manage time efficiently.
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Documenting UX work as Jira tickets with clear scope, acceptance criteria, and points improves predictability and stakeholder alignment.
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It is a misconception that working on UX features ahead of development violates Agile principles; discovery and build phases coexist iteratively.
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Accessibility in UX is about creating living, widely accessible documentation tailored to various team members, including newcomers.
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Video walkthroughs with voiceovers are effective tools for communicating complex UX scenarios beyond static prototypes.
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Trust within the UX team and across Scrum teams is critical to reduce redundant meetings and optimize collaboration.
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Decomposing UX tickets should balance granularity with managing research and design workload within Agile sprint durations.
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Preparation of UX tickets and agendas prior to Scrum meetings leads to more efficient planning and refinement sessions.
Notable Quotes
"If UX works on a feature ahead of it being developed, the team is not practicing Agile — that is so false."
"We don’t build a house breaking ground the same day; we draft the blueprint first using discovery, exploration, build, and evaluate phases."
"UX work can still be tracked using Jira tickets, and this brings clarity and alignment for all stakeholders."
"A good UX ticket is not that much different from any other ticket — clear title, description, acceptance criteria, and points."
"The shared service UX model allows for fluid swarming with Scrum teams based on need while managing time effectively."
"If it’s not on Confluence or the server, it doesn’t exist — having a single, accessible repository is crucial."
"Creating documentation that benefits a wide audience, including new people onboarding, means avoiding jargon and acronyms wherever possible."
"Video recordings with voiceover are invaluable; they help teams understand complex flows without relying on static prototypes."
"Trust your UX team to represent each other in meetings and to track discussions accurately for maximal team efficiency."
"Attending necessary ceremonies with clear agendas helps UX practitioners focus on work that directly impacts the team’s current sprint goals."
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