This is a lesson I learned while reading the book Atomic Habit by James Clear. Let me share the main ideas here and discuss how we can apply them in software development.

In software product development, mistakes can have costly consequences. They can lead to delays, project failures, and even security breaches. That’s why it’s crucial to have a way that can help reduce the risk of errors and increase overall quality. Pointing-and-Calling can be adapted to the software product development process as a way to increase awareness and reduce mistakes.

Pointing-and-Calling is a safety system that originated in Japan and has been adopted by transportation agencies around the world, including the MTA subway system in New York City. The system is simple but effective: as each operator runs the train, they proceed through a ritual of pointing at different objects and calling out commands. When the train approaches a signal, the operator will point at it and say, “Signal is green.” Before each train departs, staff members will point along the edge of the platform and declare, “All clear!”

Just like the train operators, software developers can use similar techniques. By taking a more conscious approach to their work, scrum team can be more aware of potential issues before they become major problems:

1. Verify the Product Requirement Checklist: each PO/BA should have a checklist of things to have when writing a PRD. Hence, calling out each of the points while reviewing the document would be a great way to avoid missing them.
2. Point and call commands: When writing code, by verbalizing the steps they are taking, developers can avoid mistakes and catch errors before they become problems.
3. Point and call if a feature is working properly: this can be helpful when you are testing the feature (QA) with a long list of requirements.

From my personal experience, I have tried utilizing Pointing-and-Calling in my own work, and I strongly recommend that you do the same. I hope that this technique proves to be as helpful for you as it has been for me.