Process Action Teams have a difficult job to do. They must not only understand the important aspects for the Key Process Area or Process Area they are dealing with, but they must also craft processes (including process definitions, scripts, standards, and forms) that are appropriate to the needs of the organization, pilot test the changes they propose, and ultimately assure that the process changes become a part of the organization. This requires technical knowledge that can be gained through Key Process Area Training, an understanding of the difficulties of making changes in organizations that can be gained through the Managing Technological Change course, and an understanding of the company that the team members bring by virtue of their experience in the organization.
But the requisite training and experience is not all they need. They also need the perspective and understanding of an experienced coach. The PAT Coach will assure that the team remains focused on their goals, avoids pitfalls that stand in their way, apply their professional judgement to the critical issues, and make continued significant progress toward completeing their assignment. The coach participates in the team kickoff and training, sits in on team meetings as needed, consults regularly with the team leader and the members, and reviews all plans, proposals and process artifacts produced by the team.
ASK Process's practical experience in software engineering as well as process improvement will give your PATs the edge they need to be winning teams.