agileAug 30

Thread: How the IKEA F-Factor Helps You Handle Accessibility in Scrum

Manufacturing SMEs often see accessibility requirements as expensive add-ons that slow production. IKEA’s founder Ingvar Kamprad proved constraints can drive innovation. His F-Factor—Functionality, Form, Quality, Sustainability, Low Price—turned flat-pack shipping limits into opportunities. Here’s how to apply this in Scrum for hardware teams. (1/7)

Show threadagileAug 30

Core Idea
Kamprad treated limits like flat-pack shipping as design challenges. He broke furniture into modular parts kept affordable without losing usability. For hardware today, accessibility (like voice controls or adjustable parts) should be part of the design process from the start, not tacked on later.

Practical Steps (2/7)

Show threadagileAug 30
Redefine 'Done' Early
Update your definition of Done in the backlog to include core accessibility standards before sprints start. A drill manufacturer might require prototypes to work with one hand. Hold refinement sessions where engineering, design, and QA identify accessibility tasks early. (3/7)
Show threadagileAug 30
Run Focused Sprints
Set up separate two-week sprints where departmental teams tackle accessibility. One team could work on braille packaging with recycled materials. Another tests tool-free adjustments. Sync results in a cross-team meeting to merge solutions. (4/7)
Show threadagileAug 30
Build Modular Accessible Versions
Start with a basic accessible version of your product. Make it modular to fit existing lines. Example: A detachable tool grip tested with users who have limited dexterity. Improve it based on their feedback into pressure sensitivity or better materials. (5/7)
Show threadagile

Track Progress in Retros
Measure two things each sprint: Cost per accessibility feature added, and time to meet compliance. If workbench non-slip surfaces take too long, use the retro to find better suppliers or standard materials.

Final Thought
Treat accessibility constraints like IKEA’s flat packs. Let them push your team to build hardware that’s both compliant and better for users. Start with one sprint cycle and adjust based on what works. (6/7)

Aug 30 at 4:59amWeb
Show threadagileAug 30
#Scrum #HardwareDevelopment #Accessibility #InclusiveDesign #Agile #Ffactor #Innovation #DesignConstraints #Sustainability #ModularDesign (7/7)