How to Build a Champions Program for Platform Engineering Culture

Introduction: Why Do You Need Champions?

• Platform Engineering culture focuses on empowering development teams and improving Developer Experience (DevEx).
• The challenge: Encouraging teams to adopt new tools and processes isn’t always easy.
• The solution: A Champions program that relies on internal leaders from within teams to bridge the gap between the platform and its users.

Step 1: Identifying the Right Champions

Who are the Champions?

Team members with:

• Passion for technology and problem-solving.
• Influence and strong connections with their teammates.
• A willingness to learn and share knowledge.

How do you identify them?

• Ask team leads for individuals who show interest in innovative processes.
• Look for employees who actively promote ideas or improve existing tools.

Step 2: Building Proper Training for Champions

Why is training important?

Champions must be experts in both platform technologies and effective communication with teams.

What should the training include?

• Technical aspects: How to use the organization’s platforms, modules, and tools.
• Soft skills: Coaching, change management, and handling resistance.
• Hands-on experience: Supporting teams in implementing solutions.

Step 3: Creating an Internal Champions Community

Regular meetings:

• Share knowledge, successes, and challenges.
• Discuss ways to improve the platform.

Dedicated communication channels:

Slack, email, or forums for mutual support among Champions.

Incentives:

• Public recognition of their achievements.
• Opportunities for promotions or participation in professional conferences.

Step 4: Measuring and Continuously Improving

What should you measure?

• Developers’ satisfaction with the platform.
• Adoption rates of new tools and processes.
• Volume and quality of feedback from teams.

Continuous improvement:

• Updating training programs.
• Upgrading tools based on feedback.
• Adapting the program to organizational changes.

The Value of a Champions Program to Your Organization

• Bridging the gap between platform and developers: Champions act as a link between development and platform teams.
• Accelerating solution adoption: Champions’ close relationships with teams help speed up adoption.
• Strengthening organizational culture: Building a community that fosters learning, sharing, and continuous improvement.

🚀 Conclusion

A Champions program is a long-term investment that drives greater engagement, communication, and success in adopting Platform Engineering culture. How do you get started? Simply identify your first Champions and start the process. Do you already have a similar program? I’d love to hear about it!