Diverse skill set and continuous up-skilling

A growth mindset is intrinsic to the startup approach. As one of the core focus areas of this guide, this paradigm encourages entities to commit to continuous upskilling, and working with multi-disciplinary teams.

 

A productised approach runs on short development cycles that emphasises swift turnarounds and varied specialised skill sets. This calls for a culture of self-learning, cross-skilling and working in multi-disciplinary teams that bring a range of knowledge, perspectives and skills. Cross-functional teams can also better understand and anticipate diverse customer needs, and are highly flexible in response to evolving requirements. This results in product outcomes that are highly efficient and creative.

Strategies to leverage a growth mindset can include:
Build agile squads

In the traditional model, individuals with the same skills usually come under one same team. This can decrease flexibility and hamper communication. An agile squad, however, is a small multidisciplinary or cross-functional team that is majorly self-managed and is excellent at teamwork and cross-collaboration.

Form diverse teams

Choose candidates with diverse skills, experiences, and perspectives during the hiring process; this includes specialists and generalists drawn from varied disciplines. Explore hybrid models that allow for a combination of in-house talent and external consultants.

Create a learning culture

Encourage a culture of continuous learning and improvement, where upskilling is not only welcomed but rewarded. Create access to training programs like workshops and online courses.

Encourage continuous development cycles

Implement continuous development cycles tailored to the needs of participants. This can include workshops, seminars, webinars, and online courses.

Encourage cross-training

Implement cross-training programs where employees learn skills outside their primary role. This can foster a more versatile and adaptable workforce.

Build role rotation programs

Allowing team members to rotate through different roles within the team or organisation can help them develop a broader range of skills and a better understanding of their colleagues’ roles.

Nurture communities of practice

These are groups of people who share a common interest or field and come together to share knowledge and learn from each other. While not a team in the traditional sense, communities of practice can help foster a multidisciplinary mindset within an organisation.