Who Is On Your Team?

For the forty years I worked as a manager of complex software development, much of the discussion and adaptations in a quest for faster turn time and efficiencies centered around the software development methodology. Delivery on time and within budget is always the goal. Diligent communication with all project stakeholders is the force that keeps the momentum going. Adaptability gained credence as we moved from seeing the value of a waterfall methodology to the more adaptive iterative and agile approaches. Listening skills are essential for requirements gathering and improving team dynamics. 

A waterfall methodology moved from requirements gathering to design, coding, testing, and implementation in sequence. The idea was to refrain from revisiting any of these stages and keep producing to hit target dates. Unfortunately, this approach often results in dissatisfied customers and costly rework. 

An iterative approach moved from one phase to another and back through the phases if a new requirement was introduced or a new technology was installed. Teams that use this approach create, test, and revise until they are satisfied with the results. This approach was more flexible and adaptive, yet it needed controls so that the teams agreed on the number of iterations and a delivery date. 

The agile methodology embraces continuous delivery in rapid iterations and team collaboration to produce a result for the customer. There is a strong emphasis on team dynamics and a reliance on the team to deliver. One feature could be provided and installed into production rather than all the requirements simultaneously.

I loved the evolution of software development and participating in less rework and more team efficiency. Where the approaches might be different, the knowledge of the team to carry out the project was the same. There were expert planners, project managers, business analysts, designers, coders, testers, and a production implementation team. The mix and the timing for the team members to step up may be different, but all of their expertise was required. Solid communication and adaptability are necessary regardless of the methodology used. 

How do I apply this knowledge and expertise to ghostwriting clients? All the methodologies are used at various stages of the book development process, including onboarding through the final publication-ready draft. 

Communication, listening, and adaptability skills are essential in ghostwriting. A ghostwriter must listen and hear their client and translate what they hear to their client's voice. Prompt communication with all parties involved in the project builds credibility and confidence for my clients and our team of experts. Adaptability is a life skill required to engage with my clients, revise the project timeline as needed, and live our best lives. The more we can adapt, the better we are at it. 

A waterfall approach involves planning, execution, and review. These are crucial early steps that determine the delivery speed and the output quality. Planning the scope, identifying the chapters, and creating a detailed outline is essential. 

Often, we iterate over these early steps until my client and I are satisfied with the result. Execution involves writing the chapters that follow the outline, although not necessarily sequentially. Feedback loops are defined, revisions are made, sometimes going back to the outline or directly rewriting the chapters. 

Adaptability is one of the main features of an agile methodology, which means that client feedback is essential and can cause some rework, which is part of the process. In a waterfall methodology, the belief is that a roadmap is established after sign-off. Deciding to include another story or interview is an example. 

And finally, just as with software development, your extended team of experts has different roles. Your ghostwriter is not your developmental editor. Your copy and line editors are another set of eyes that will provide professional feedback. Proofreading, cover design, and typesetting are additional skills needed from others. 

I love embracing this career because my professional experience adds value to you and our team. We will work together to ensure your book shines and your story is told.