T*D: Three Fundamental Practices for High-Performing Teams

I understand that the ensemble of practices I call T*D (Trunk-Based Development + Test-Driven Development + and Team-Focused Development), can seem daunting at first.

However, in 2025, any software team that aims to be high-performing should prioritise investing time in understanding and adopting each of these approaches.

When combined, these three practices create a powerful framework that enhances software delivery in several ways. They streamline the development process, improve overall code quality, foster a low-stress work environment, and strengthen communication.

Trunk-Based Development is essential for achieving true Continuous Integration. Without it, maintaining a fast and stable delivery pipeline becomes significantly more difficult.

Test-Driven Development enables teams to build software incrementally and iteratively at a fine-grained level, ensuring reliability and maintainability from the outset.

Team-Focused Development reinforces collaboration, shared ownership, and collective responsibility, emphasising that a software team should function as a cohesive unit rather than as isolated individuals.

By embracing T*D, teams set themselves up for long-term success, creating a sustainable and adaptable development culture that thrives on efficiency, quality and collaboration.

Originally posted on LinkedIn.