Organizational Constraints & Bureaucracy

Every Agile initiative is affected by the invisible gravity of structure and policy. These principles explain why large systems resist change, how bureaucracy grows, and what happens when incentives go misaligned. By recognizing these constraints, Agile practitioners avoid naïve planning and instead operate with strategic realism and influence.

Peter Principle

People in a hierarchy tend to rise to their level of incompetence.

Putt's Law

"Technology is dominated by those who understand it least, and those who understand it best are driven out."

Pournelle's Iron Law of Bureaucracy

Organizations prioritize self-preservation over their mission.

Gresham's Law

"Bad processes drive out good processes."

Moore's Law of Hiring

High-performing teams attract high-performing individuals.

Jevons Paradox

Increased efficiency can lead to greater resource consumption.