Thanks for your comment. You know, we’re actually on the same page here. I do *not* advocate compliance as a way to exert control over others — trusting your team is absolutely essential. I do see it as a way to improve the quality of the product, as you mention.

As I say in my post: “It’s not about keeping tabs on people, it’s about making sure the product doesn’t get out of control.” It helps not just the team, but especially *me* as Product Manager to stay on top of things that need to happen.

I share your idealism that with self-discipline and a little bit of process and guidance, we can build great product.

-Rian

Compliance directed at improving quality and “good-enough” delivery of working software is just fine. We all need some process and guidance in everything we do. Even, in self-discipline there is compliance to the self, and this kind is most probably more strongly imposed than others. But compliance for the sake of control often seem to be weak attempts to counteract a distinct lack of trust.

Yes, I’m being idealistic again. But why not be idealistic, even if it’s just in thought?