Golden Circle

What It Is:

The Golden Circle is a concept introduced by Simon Sinek in his book “Start With Why.” The idea is centered around three concentric circles representing three essential questions that organizations should address: Why, How, and What.

1. Why:
   • Core Question: Why does the organization exist? What is its purpose or cause?
   • Focus: The fundamental belief or reason that inspires the organization to do what it does.
2. How:
   • Core Question: How does the organization fulfill its purpose or cause?
   • Focus: The specific values, principles, or actions that guide the organization in achieving its goals.
3. What:
   • Core Question: What does the organization do or provide?
   • Focus: The products, services, or activities that the organization engages in to fulfill its purpose.

How to Use It:

Using The Golden Circle in Agile Coaching:

1. Define the Team’s Why:
   • Work with the Agile software delivery team to articulate their collective purpose or mission. Why does the team exist, and what impact does it aim to make?
2. Align Team Values (How):
   • Identify and emphasize the core values that guide the team’s actions and decisions. This could involve collaborative discussions to define the team’s principles and preferred ways of working.
3. Connect to Agile Practices (What):
   • Relate the team’s daily practices, such as Scrum ceremonies or Kanban boards, to the overarching Why and How. Help the team see these practices as means to fulfill their higher purpose and values.
4. Inspire a Sense of Purpose:
   • Use The Golden Circle to inspire a sense of purpose and motivation within the team. When individuals understand and align with the team’s Why, it can lead to increased engagement and commitment.

Applying The Golden Circle can lead to a more purpose-driven and aligned Agile software delivery team. It provides a framework for connecting daily activities to a higher purpose, fostering a sense of meaning and fulfillment among team members.

References:

1. “Start With Why” by Simon Sinek:
   • Simon Sinek’s book “Start With Why” delves into The Golden Circle concept in-depth. It provides case studies and examples to illustrate how successful organizations start with a clear sense of purpose.
     • Simon Sinek (2011). “Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action”
2. Simon Sinek’s Talks and Interviews:
   • Simon Sinek has delivered talks and interviews discussing The Golden Circle and its application. Explore online videos, podcasts, or articles where he elaborates on the concept.
3. Team Building Workshops:
   • Incorporate The Golden Circle into team-building workshops. Activities that prompt discussions around the team’s Why, How, and What can foster a deeper understanding of shared values.
4. Application in Leadership:
   • Consider resources that apply The Golden Circle to leadership and organizational strategy. Understanding the concept can help leaders inspire and lead teams with a strong sense of purpose.

---

Visit the Agile Coach’s Toolkit for more definitions, models, theorems and stuff.