When Pairs Disagree, 1-2-3

Abstract

Pair programming requires two programmers to work together to solve the same problem. These programmers probably have opinions about most design decisions (method names, and anything else that comes up during a pairing session). Some of those opinions are stronger than others. It is quite likely that those opinions will differ, sometimes often. When they do, there needs to be a simple way to resolve the conflict. Arguing doesn’t work, and helps no one.

When a disagreement about how to proceed comes up, each pair should score his opinion on a scale of 1–3. The highest score dictates what the pair does next. In the event of a tie, the pair should discuss the various options, agree to disagree, pick one, and move on. This simple approach works.