Today I was asked asked: what is a rigid framework?
Well, I like to divide into 2 groups:
A rigid framework
A rigid framework is one that prescribes a fixed set of possibilities. For example, rules, roles, and processes without considering how an organization evolves over time. It assumes that a single, predefined grand structure will work in all situations, regardless of context or change. This often leads to teams following processes mechanically rather than shaping them to fit their needs.
A generative framework
A generative framework on the other hand, provides guiding principles that help an organization grow and adapt its practices over time. Instead of dictating a specific process, it offers foundational elements—axioms, principles, and heuristics—that enable teams and orgs to evolve solutions that fit their unique context.
What about Scrum?
Scrum provides a framework for process generation—it gives you a setup (events, artefacts, accountabilities, and some rules) and allows teams to generate their own process. (Yes, Scrum is not a method for developing products) However, it does not generate the framework itself; This makes it not generative in that sense.
Examples of generative approaches
- Scrum Patterns: Instead of saying “use Scrum exactly as written,” Scrum Patterns offer generic solutions that teams can adopt and need to adapt to if faced with the specific problem the pattern adresses.
- Creating Agile Organizations (CAO): This approach provides org design principles, guides and axioms for agile org design to evolve your framework.
- Lean Thinking: Focuses on continuous improvement rather than a fixed set of rules.
To summarise
This distinction between rigid and generative frameworks is something worth considering when thinking about how teams and organizations evolve. While rigid frameworks provide structure, generative ones offer the flexibility to adapt and grow over time. Rather than following processes blindly, teams can benefit from shaping their own approaches based on guiding principles. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, but keeping an open mind to continuous learning and improvement can make a meaningful difference.
