Agile transformation is no longer limited to IT. As organizations pivot toward speed, adaptability, and continuous value delivery, the question arises: Where should we begin—HR or IT?

Why IT Seems Like the Obvious Starting Point

Traditionally, IT departments have been the birthplace of Agile. Frameworks like Scrum, SAFe, and DevOps have matured in tech teams. Starting with IT makes sense if your goals are to:

• Accelerate software delivery
• Improve cross-functional collaboration
• Scale digital capabilities quickly

An IT-led transformation often provides quick wins, a proof of concept, and a technical foundation for Agile practices.

But is it enough?

The Case for Starting with HR

Modern Agile isn’t just about processes—it’s about people, mindset, and culture. That’s where HR comes in.

Imagine trying to scale Agile without:

• Adaptive performance management
• Agile-aligned recruitment and onboarding
• Learning & development pathways for self-organizing teams
• An incentive system that rewards collaboration over hierarchy

Starting with HR enables organizations to embed agility into the organizational DNA. Agile HR leads culture change, redesigns organizational structures, and champions values such as transparency, autonomy, and continuous feedback.

In other words, HR sets the stage for sustainable transformation.

A Hybrid Approach: Start Where Readiness Is Highest

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The most effective transformations often begin with the department most ready and motivated to lead by example.

• If IT has Agile experience and strong leadership buy-in—start there.
• If HR sees Agile as a lever for workforce transformation—empower them first.

The key is to start small, show value early, and scale what works.

Final Thought

Starting Agile in IT may build technical momentum, but starting with HR builds cultural resilience. The strongest transformations align both from the outset.

So, don’t ask where to start.

Ask instead: “Where can we lead by example, learn quickly, and create a model for others to follow?”