Pair Programming

Connection - 10'

• In solo, list all the pros and cons of Pair Programming

• Share with the rest of the group

Concepts - 20'

• Watch this video

  • Ask them what they have seen

  • What are the other pros and cons explained

• Be sure that everyone has understood the roles : Drive / Navigator

Pros	Cons
Instantly shared best practices / knowledge	Tiring
Improved design / code quality (fewer mistakes)	Can create frictions
Faster on-boarding
Increase moral / confidence
Increase team cohesion / collective ownership
Instant code reviews

• Pair programming is not 1 person sleeping and only one working.

Different styles

Ping pong when doing TDD

What about the cost of Pair Programming ?

• The Costs and Benefits of Pair Programming Alistair Cockburn & Laurie Williams

  • The development cost is approximately 15% higher

  • BUT this is repaid in :

    • Shorter and less expensive testing

    • Higher quality assurance

    • Less field support

Concrete Practice - Create your check-list - 20'

• Think about key factors to make successful pair programming sessions

• Create a check-list

Example of check-list :

• Communicate – without violence

  • To propose an idea : “I think...”

  • To confirm agreement : “Do we agree...”

  • To discuss progress towards goals : “We agree...”

  • Avoid saying “No” / ”But”

    • Instead try saying, “Yes and...”

  • Ask “What would it take to get you in..” if you’re disagree about a proposed idea

• Talk / listen a lot

• Switch roles often

• Take breaks / Disconnect

• Chit chat when there is friction

Conclusion - 5'

How to start in your team ?

Pair Programming Matrix from Jimmy Janlen

• WHY ?

  • To do more pair programming

  • Visualize how much you pair during a week/sprint

• HOW ?

  • Whenever you’ve done a pairing session, make a tick in the corresponding box