This article was based on the interview with Prakamya Choudhary of TEKsystems by Greg Kihlström, MarTech keynote speaker for The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström podcast. Listen to the original episode here:
Continuous skill development through the Dojo model is a powerful approach that organizations can use to transform their learning culture and drive innovation.
The Dojo model, which originated from a Japanese term meaning “place of the way,” involves teams coming together to learn new skills, technologies, and methodologies while working on real-world projects and delivering solutions to customers. This approach not only helps individuals and teams acquire new skills but also serves as a vehicle for organizational change.
Implementing the Dojo model in organizations requires careful planning and execution. As Prakamya Chowdhury, a principal coach at TEKsystems, shared in a podcast interview, her journey into implementing the Dojo model started when she was a DevOps engineer hired by a company that already had in-house dojos for continuous delivery chain transformation. Through her experience, she witnessed the power of the Dojo model in driving individual and collective transformation within teams.
Setting up and launching a Dojo involves several steps, including identifying the skills and technologies to be taught, selecting a team of coaches and mentors, creating a structured learning environment, and aligning the Dojo activities with the organization’s goals and objectives. Challenges may arise during the implementation process, such as resistance to change, lack of buy-in from stakeholders, or difficulties in integrating the Dojo model with existing processes and workflows. However, with proper planning, communication, and support, these challenges can be overcome.
The Dojo model offers several benefits for organizations seeking to foster continuous skill development. By providing a hands-on learning experience, teams can quickly acquire new skills and apply them in real-world scenarios, leading to faster innovation and improved performance. The collaborative nature of the Dojo encourages knowledge sharing, teamwork, and a culture of continuous improvement. Additionally, the Dojo model can help organizations stay agile and adaptable in a rapidly changing business environment.
Continuous skill development through the Dojo model is a valuable approach for organizations looking to enhance their learning culture, drive innovation, and adapt to evolving technologies and market trends. By embracing the principles of the Dojo model and investing in ongoing skill development, organizations can empower their teams to thrive in a competitive and dynamic business landscape.
