This story begins when a client presented us with a functional specification document they had been working on for nearly two years. This document outlined the product they wanted and the timelines they expected. It proposed what we call a 'fixed-scope, fixed-time' contract. Although this is not how we typically work at Grupo Esfera—since we prefer contracts with variable scope and time—the technological challenge was highly compelling, and we decided to accept after weeks of negotiation.

We used our own framework, the "Camino Esfera" (Esfera Way), to build trust with the client while developing the product progressively. We started by breaking down the specification document into small, valuable, and working software increments, using techniques such as slicing, automated testing, and continuous deployments. From the very first sprints, it became clear that we could deliver a product that met their needs, even when those needs had not been explicitly specified.

After two years of working with this client, we now have the creative freedom to design the technical solutions we deem best. Conversations with the team's PO are fluid and collaborative, and she gives the team the space to evolve their own solutions and designs.

Our technical practices built the trust necessary to shift expectations from a fixed scope to a variable scope, using value delivery as our compass. Today, it is one of our favorite client accounts to work on.