Speed vs. Velocity: The Difference for Software Teams

The article distinguishes speed from velocity: speed is delivery pace, while velocity adds direction toward goals.

It argues that software teams should not rely on story points as proof of progress.

Instead, teams should pair operational metrics like deployment frequency and MTTR with business outcomes such as payment success, signup activation, and retention.

Fast work without alignment can create busy activity without improving the product or business results.

OKRs and outcome-based measures help ensure delivery effort is actually moving the team in the right direction.