Two approaches to decision making are rules-based and values-based.
When basing decisions on rules, we require prescriptive direction given to those in the organisation. Such an approach may have benefits (e.g. lack of ambiguity where rules apply, faster application for new starters) but is detrimental if the organisation wishes to cultivate self-managing teams.
When decisions are based of values, individuals are empowered to utilise their own judgement. In managing traffic, traffic lights and roundabouts are analogous to rules and values-based decision making: [2]
- Traffic lights – decisions are not made by those actively involved in the process, nor made on the basis of emergent information.
- Roundabouts – decisions are made by those participating in the process, and made based on current information.
The latter is more consistent with Scrum values as we respect others to make value-based decisions, and have the courage to do so.