Metrics for balanced cognitive load - DevOps Guidance

Metrics for balanced cognitive load

  • Team size ratio: Comparing the actual team size against the recommended team size based on cognitive limits. To measure this metric, compare the current team size to the recommended team size to calculate the ratio based on cognitive limits, for example, less than 10 people in individual teams, and less than 150 in a team of teams.

  • Burnout assessment scores: Evaluate team members' well-being using a burnout assessment survey. For example, the Maslach Burnout Inventory general survey delves into exhaustion, cynicism, and professional efficacy as indicators of burnout. Distribute the questionnaire to team members on a regular basis, such as quarterly or biannually, to monitor trends and respond proactively to burnout indicators. Over time, track changes to help ensure that interventions are effective and that overall team well-being is trending positively. Encourage open communication and feedback, allowing teams to voice concerns or provide suggestions to improve the work environment. Consider working with human resources (HR) professionals or occupational psychologists to interpret the results and develop appropriate interventions.