Summary
In this conversation, Dave Prior and Jim Benson discuss the challenges of remote work, the impact of collaboration tools on productivity, and the importance of creating humane workspaces. They explore the dynamics of meetings, the toxicity of over-communication, and the need for regular maintenance in team processes. Jim shares insights from his course on cleaning toxic waste in workplaces, emphasizing the significance of visual management and effective communication to foster a healthier work environment.

Takeaways
	•	Work should be done without fear or trepidation.
	•	Remote work requires understanding information needs within teams.
	•	Meetings often become unproductive due to over-communication.
	•	Context switching can lead to frustration and decreased productivity.
	•	Creating humane workspaces is essential for team dynamics.
	•	Regular maintenance of team processes prevents issues from escalating.
	•	Collaboration tools need to be used intentionally and effectively.
	•	Visual management can help reduce workplace toxicity.
	•	Toxic systems lead to hiring toxic leaders.
	•	Addressing workplace toxicity is a collective responsibility.

Chapters
02:11 Introduction to Jim Benson and Work Dynamics
05:09 The Challenges of Remote Work and Collaboration Tools
08:07 Meeting Overload and Productivity Killers
11:14 Communication Tools and Their Inefficiencies
14:11 The Impact of Context Switching on Work
17:07 Creating Humane Workspaces
20:10 The Role of Tools in Team Collaboration
23:08 Cleaning Toxic Waste in Work Environments
26:15 Conclusion and Course Information

Links from the episode
Cleaning Toxic Waste Course: https://modusinstitute.com/course/toxic-waste
Modus Institute: https://modusinstitute.com/
The Collaboration Equation: https://www.collaboration-equation.com/
The Agile Network December Micro Conference (Dec 16-17): https://theagilenetwork.com

Contacting Jim
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimbenson/
Email: jim@moduscooperandi.com

Are Your Collaboration Tools Hijacking Your Productivity? with Jim Benson

A podcast about Agile and Project Management

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