This presentation was given at the Lean Software and Systems Conference 2012 (LSSC12).

Patterns describe a problem for a given context and offer a solution based on experience that has been consistently successful. A pattern language of flow, if it existed, would attempt to identify problems with the flow of work in software development from request to release. The existence of problems could be confirmed with the use of empirical data and visualisations. Solutions could also use empirical data to inform better economic decisions and create the catalyst for change.

This talk will outline successful flow based strategies used in the software industry to build the right thing, improve quality, increase throughput or reduce the time it takes from the request of a feature until its delivery. The strategies are based on the experience of the author along side development communities in New Zealand and the UK, making them candidates to form the basis of a Pattern Language of Flow in collaboration with the wider community.