Learn some best practices for pair programming in Extreme Programming (XP), such as defining the roles, communicating clearly, sharing the control, and having fun.

In Extreme Programming (XP), switching roles between the driver and navigator enhances collaboration and learning. Establishing clear role definitions initially is crucial. The driver codes, while the navigator guides the strategy and reviews work. Regularly switching these roles, possibly with a timer or at the completion of tasks, ensures both team members engage deeply with the code and the broader project goals. This practice, which I've found to be highly effective in my own tech leadership, not only distributes knowledge and skills evenly but also fosters a shared responsibility for the project's success, leading to more resilient and adaptable teams.

Last updated on Jul 9, 2024

What are some best practices for switching roles and sharing control in XP?

Extreme Programming (XP) is a software development methodology that emphasizes frequent feedback, communication, and collaboration. One of the core practices of XP is pair programming, where two developers work together on the same code, switching roles and sharing control. Pair programming can improve quality, productivity, and learning, but it also requires some best practices to make it effective and enjoyable. Here are some tips to help you switch roles and share control in XP.

1 Define the roles

Before you start pair programming, you should agree on the roles of the driver and the navigator. The driver is the one who writes the code, while the navigator is the one who reviews the code, offers suggestions, and monitors the big picture. The roles are not fixed, and you should switch them frequently to balance the workload and the learning opportunities. You can use a timer, a task, or a mutual agreement to decide when to switch roles.

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Iain White

Tech Consultant | IT Leader | Mentor | Virtual CTO | Leadership Coach | Project Manager | Scrum Master | IT Strategy | Digital Transformation | IT Governance | Agile | Lean | Theory Of Constraints | SaaS | Brisbane.
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In Extreme Programming (XP), switching roles between the driver and navigator enhances collaboration and learning. Establishing clear role definitions initially is crucial. The driver codes, while the navigator guides the strategy and reviews work. Regularly switching these roles, possibly with a timer or at the completion of tasks, ensures both team members engage deeply with the code and the broader project goals. This practice, which I've found to be highly effective in my own tech leadership, not only distributes knowledge and skills evenly but also fosters a shared responsibility for the project's success, leading to more resilient and adaptable teams.

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Vinothkumar K.

👨💻 Software Engineer | Passionate about Clean Code, TDD 🧪, and Pair Programming 🤝. Let's connect and build high-quality software together! 🚀 Also, an avid runner 🏃♂️.
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Driver Navigator is the most used style of pairing. Before starting the pairing session, as a pair agree on the pairing style that is going to be used for the session. Driver Navigator works well if both are experts or with novice-expert pair. In case of novice-expert the role swap will not help as novice will not be able to navigate. Pair can decide to choose any pairing style like Tour Guide, ping-pong, strong style based on their skill level Agree upon the time to switch roles, how frequent to take breaks, how long the breaks should be, coding standards to follow.

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2 Communicate clearly

Communication is key for pair programming, as you need to share your thoughts, ideas, and feedback with your partner. You should communicate clearly and respectfully, using a common language and terminology. You should also listen actively and attentively, asking questions and clarifying doubts. You should avoid interrupting, criticizing, or dominating your partner, and instead use constructive and positive language.

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Vinothkumar K.

👨💻 Software Engineer | Passionate about Clean Code, TDD 🧪, and Pair Programming 🤝. Let's connect and build high-quality software together! 🚀 Also, an avid runner 🏃♂️.
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Communication is the key in any team and it is very critical in pair programming. Your thoughts are fed into the computer through your partner. Make sure to use simple language that your partner/pair understands. Active listening is essential. Make sure to ask questions is you are not clear on things said by your partner. Same way make sure to clarify any questions or doubts your partner has. Don't interrupt unless it is needed. Provide suggestions/feedback in a positive manner.

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3 Share the control

Sharing the control means that both partners have equal input and influence on the code. You should not impose your preferences or opinions on your partner, but rather discuss and agree on the best solution. You should also respect your partner's style and pace, and not force them to write or read code faster or slower than they are comfortable with. You should also share the control of the tools and the environment, such as the keyboard, the mouse, the editor, and the testing framework.

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4 Be open to learning

Pair programming is a great opportunity to learn from your partner, as you can expose yourself to different perspectives, approaches, and techniques. You should be open to learning from your partner, regardless of their experience or skill level. You should also be willing to teach your partner, sharing your knowledge and expertise. You should not assume that you know everything or that your partner knows nothing, but rather treat each other as peers and learners.

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5 Give and receive feedback

Feedback is essential for pair programming, as it can help you improve your code quality, identify errors, and solve problems. You should give and receive feedback regularly and respectfully, using specific and objective criteria. You should also appreciate and acknowledge your partner's feedback, and act on it accordingly. You should not take feedback personally or defensively, or ignore or dismiss your partner's feedback.

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6 Have fun

Pair programming can be fun and rewarding, if you approach it with a positive and collaborative attitude. You should have fun with your partner, enjoying the interaction, the challenge, and the creativity. You should also celebrate your achievements, recognize your strengths, and support your weaknesses. You should not view pair programming as a competition or a burden, but rather as a chance to grow and improve as a developer.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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What are some best practices for switching roles and sharing control in XP?

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1 Define the roles

2 Communicate clearly

3 Share the control

4 Be open to learning

5 Give and receive feedback

6 Have fun

7 Here’s what else to consider

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