Mitigating Communication-Related Process Loss in Agile Teams: A Case Study on Common Ground and Role-Based Interaction
Jacqueline Vitacco, Thomas Bosshard · 2025
Agile software development frameworks such as Scrum promote frequent communication through structured ceremonies intended to foster a shared understanding. However, communication challenges remain a persistent source of process inefficiency, particularly in complex, cross-functional projects. This case study investigates how a lack of common ground contributes to communication-related process loss within Agile settings. Based on semi-structured interviews with experienced Agile team leaders, the study reveals that Agile ceremonies alone are insufficient to ensure effective knowledge sharing and coordination. The findings highlight the need to distinguish communication purposes across stakeholder roles, introducing the concept of role-based communication interfaces as a means of enhancing effective communication. By viewing Agile teams as socio-technical systems, this study identifies targeted strategies to mitigate process loss through structured, purpose-driven communication frameworks. The study contributes to the understanding of how Agile practices can evolve to better address communication challenges, offering practical guidance for improving software development processes in real-world team environments.