What should the team focus on in order to optimize flow?

To optimize flow, the team should focus on minimizing delays within the workflow. Delays can disrupt the smooth progression of work items through various stages, leading to longer cycle times and inefficiencies. By identifying and addressing the sources of delays, teams can improve their delivery speed and responsiveness, thereby enhancing overall flow.

Optimizing flow means ensuring that work moves seamlessly from one step to the next, and any interruptions or bottlenecks can significantly hinder that process. This focus allows teams to identify which parts of their process are causing the most friction, enabling them to implement strategies, such as removing obstacles or improving handoffs, that will streamline their operations.

While cost, requests, and results are important metrics in different contexts, they do not directly address the immediate concern of optimizing flow. Focusing on delays ensures that the team can actively create a more efficient workflow, leading to better outcomes over time.