Lead time in software development is the duration from when a task is initiated until it’s deployed. It’s an essential measure of productivity, with shorter lead times implying higher efficiency. Effective prioritization is crucial in achieving this, especially in a pair programming environment.

Pair programming thrives in an environment where tasks are appropriately prioritized. This is because having two minds focused on high-priority tasks leads to their swift and accurate completion, hence shorter lead times. However, without effective prioritization, the cost-to-benefit ratio could diminish since two developers could be tied up with tasks that are not immediate or important.

Mandatory Prerequisite

1. Work is prioritized, ensuring there are no two tasks with the same priority.
2. Have a clearly defined goal for pairing or mobbing. Before any pairing or mobbing starts, we already have specific and clear written goals.

Illustration

Let’s illustrate this:

Assuming the information in the above image is accurate (as it often might be), if Ticket 1 is being worked on asynchronously by Engineer 1 and Engineer 2, it will be deployed on the third day. However, pair programming will result in its deployment on the second day. The rationale is: if Ticket 1 is the most important task, why delay it by even one day? It’s certainly beneficial to complete Ticket 1 earlier. Conversely, if Ticket 1 isn’t the most important task, why work on it at all?

So, it’s highly recommended to engage in pair or mob programming in that kind of setting or work environment.