How to implement a smart technology debt management policy?

In the article "How to Implement 20% for Tech Debt," the author addresses a key topic, namely technical debt, which can significantly hinder the development of IT projects. The term "technical debt" refers to compromises a team makes to deliver a product or feature more quickly, which in the long term can lead to difficulties in maintaining and developing software. The author emphasizes that to bring about changes, teams should allocate approximately 20% of their time to managing technical debt. The tips provided in the article include identifying areas that need improvement and setting priorities regarding technical debt so they align with the overall team goals.

The author then transitions to a brief overview of techniques that can be used to effectively manage technical debt. This depends on the skill set of the team and the specifics of the project, but common approaches include refactoring, improving tests, and code reviews. The author also highlights the importance of communication within the team, ensuring that all members are aware of existing debts and their potential impacts. Establishing transparent metrics allows teams to track progress and gain a better understanding of the impact that debts have on the project.

The article also includes real-life examples from teams that implemented these guidelines, as well as the outcomes they achieved. They show that even small investments in paying back technical debt can lead to significant increases in team performance and code quality. Furthermore, adopting practices to manage technical debt can result in faster feature delivery and improved customer satisfaction.

It is worth noting that technical debt is not something to be avoided at all costs but managed in a way that provides benefits. Managing technical debt is a crucial aspect of a team's ability to scale and adapt to changing market demands. In summary, the article provides valuable insights for IT teams looking to implement practices related to technical debt and better care for the future of their projects.