Peeling away complexity – a visionary look at agility, simplicity, and more.

My name is Neil Walker. Welcome to my blog—a space where I share insights, experiences, and practical advice on transforming organizations through strategic agility, product leadership, and innovative thinking.
I have been writing and speaking about these topics (and more) since 2000. Before Twitter became “X,” I was also very active there and built quite a following across my themed accounts.
With over 30 years of experience in agile, working across diverse industries, I’ve helped teams and leaders navigate the complexities of modern business, adopt agile ways of working, and shift from project to product mindsets.
My passion lies in empowering people and organizations to embrace simplicity, drive real change, and achieve sustainable results.
Latest insights
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The Agility Crew: Unleashing the Power of High Performing Teams
This is a follow-up article to The Shifting Winds of Business: Why Agility is No Longer Optional, from last month. In the America’s Cup, victory isn’t achieved by a lone wolf captain. It’s the synergy of the crew, each member…
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Where Should Organizations Start on Their Business Agility Journey?
Culture, Leadership, and Governance lie at the heart of Business Agility. For organizations aiming to embrace agility, getting these elements right can set the stage for sustainable change. Here’s how to start: 1. Lead with Leadership Transformation Align on Purpose…
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Charting a Course: Why Agile Leadership is Non-Negotiable
This is a follow-up article to The Shifting Winds of Business: Why Agility is No Longer Optional, from last month. Imagine the captain of an America’s Cup yacht barking orders, micromanaging every trim of the sail, every shift in weight.…
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Smarter Execution: Lessons from the 37th America’s Cup
As I watched the gripping races of the 37th America’s Cup unfold, witnessing New Zealand and Great Britain engage in a battle of skill, agility, and split-second decision-making, I was struck by how much yacht racing can teach us about…
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The Shifting Winds of Business: Why Agility is No Longer Optional
From August to October 2024, the Louis Vuitton Cup (Challenger Selection Series) took place to determine which team would face the Defender, Emirates Team New Zealand, in the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Match. Naturally, I’ve been cheering for INEOS…
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Workshop Magic: The Art of Facilitating Without Forcing ‘Fun’
Let’s face it: not everyone walks into a workshop ready to brainstorm or engage—especially when they’re deep in routine tasks or delivery pressures. But great workshops aren’t about forcing people to have fun; they’re about creating a safe environment that…
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Book: “Clearly Agile: A Leadership Guide to Business Agility”
It’s finally happened! My friend and Business Agility Institute (BAI) colleague, Giles Lindsay, has released his agility book. We both co-founded the UK operation of the BAI, and it’s been a remarkable journey. I had the pleasure of attending the…
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