Walking Skeleton Workshop

The Walking Skeleton Workshop is a collaborative exercise that allows teams to define and construct the minimal skeleton of a product architecture. It helps teams test the integration of essential components early in the development process. This game is ideal for validating technical choices and ensuring that the foundations of the product are solid before adding complex features.

Walkthrough

1. 1

   Introduction and Objectives

   10 min

   The facilitator introduces the concept of the 'Walking Skeleton' and explains its importance for the project. They outline the workshop objectives: to create a minimal skeleton of the product to test integration. Participants are encouraged to ask questions to clarify the goal.

   Tip — Use simple analogies to explain the concept of 'Walking Skeleton', such as that of a bridge that must be stable before adding decorations.

2. 2

   Identification of Key Components

   20 min

   Ask participants to identify the essential components of the product that need to be integrated into the skeleton. Each participant writes down their ideas on post-its. Then, group similar ideas and discuss priorities.

   Tip — Encourage the use of simple diagrams to visualise the components and their interactions.

3. 3

   Definition of the Minimal Skeleton

   30 min

   In groups, define the minimal skeleton of the product by selecting the components identified as priorities. Discuss the necessary connections between these components to ensure functional integration. Record decisions on a whiteboard or flip chart.

   Tip — Stay focused on simplicity and efficiency. The skeleton should be as lightweight as possible while allowing for integration testing.

4. 4

   Planning Integration Tests

   20 min

   Develop an integration testing plan for the defined skeleton. Discuss critical test scenarios that will validate the integration of the components. Ensure that each test is clear and feasible.

   Tip — Use concrete examples of test scenarios to guide the discussion and inspire participants.

5. 5

   Setting Up the Skeleton

   30 min

   Participants work in groups to set up the minimal skeleton using available tools and technologies. Each group must document the steps taken and the challenges encountered.

   Tip — Encourage participants to share their screens or use online collaborative boards to enhance collaboration, even in person.

6. 6

   Sharing Results

   20 min

   Each group presents its skeleton and the results of the initial integration tests. Discuss successes and obstacles encountered. Identify possible improvements for the skeleton.

   Tip — Take photos of the boards or diagrams to keep a record of the discussions and decisions made.

Variants

• Add a step where participants must present their skeleton to a fictional 'client' for feedback.
• Incorporate an element of surprise by adding technical constraints to adhere to when defining the skeleton.
• Use digital tools to simulate the integration of components and test the skeleton in real-time.