The sixth habit is synergy. Synergy is present when the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. For example, data from the University of Texas suggests that in some cases pair programming yields a higher productivity than two coders working separately. The probable reason for this outcome is new ideas, close communication, and continuous review. Covey suggests that the habit of synergy, which builds on the knowledge derived from implementing the previous habits combined with creativity, is the highest activity of life. Put another way, combining empathy, win-win thinking, and being proactive while thinking outside the box generates alternatives!
The power of synergy is derived from new, win-win alternatives. Covey provides examples of synergy across many categories of life, such as communication, business, nature, and the classroom. An example of creative cooperation from nature can be seen in the relationship between basil and tomatoes. Organic gardeners know that basil suppresses insects that affect tomatoes. The tomatoes, in return, change the soil composition so the basil grows better. The downside to synergistic creativity is that it is unpredictable and messy. Finding this combination of plants required experimentation and failures before the perfect companion plants were discovered.
Experimentation with the attendant potential for failure does not suit all teams or organizations. Organizations that fear the potential for failure will seek certainty. Organizations and teams that require structure, certainty, and predictability will generally resist the unpredictability and messiness of creativity. The resistance is powered by the lack of trust, suppressing win-win communication needed for creativity and synergy. Interactions based on low trust and low cooperation generate communication focused on win-lose outcomes. Many, if not most, outsourcing contracts are low-trust/low-cooperation interactions, and therefore require lawyers and negotiators to communicate. High trust/high cooperation environments provide the basis for structure, certainty, and predictability. Empathy and a belief that the outcome helps teams to exceed expectations. Mature teams with high customer satisfaction reflect high trust and high cooperation environments.
Understanding and practicing the first five habits provide an environment that can overcome the forces that restrain creativity. Creativity is a requirement for creating alternatives, which is where we can find synergy.
Support the Software Process and Measurement Cast. Buy a copy of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey and read along!
Previous Installments:
Week 1: Introduction and Be Proactive
Week 2: Begin With The End In Mind
Week 3: Put First Things First
Week 4: Think Win/Win
Week 5: Seek First To Understand, Then To Be Understood
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