In the fast-paced world of software engineering, processes often shape success—or sow frustration. Over the years, recurring anti-patterns have emerged—well-meaning practices that unintentionally create inefficiencies, stifle innovation, or harm team dynamics. These pitfalls, though rooted in good intentions, can derail projects and undermine trust when left unchecked.

Through real-world examples and two decades of industry experience, this presentation unpacks common process anti-patterns across the software lifecycle. With a focus on fostering understanding, not blame, we’ll examine how flawed workflows contribute to challenges—and how reversing them can empower teams to build clarity, creativity, collaboration, and trust.