In general, is it preferable to have long-standing product teams over ad-hoc ones?

Having long-standing product teams is generally preferable as they foster stability, continuity, and a deep understanding of the product and its domain. When teams work together over time, they build strong interpersonal relationships and develop collective knowledge that enhances their ability to collaborate effectively. This understanding of both the technical aspects and the domain context allows them to make more informed decisions and increases their efficiency.

Moreover, long-standing teams can better anticipate and respond to challenges since they have experience working through past issues together. They are more likely to have established norms and a shared language, which enables seamless communication and efficient workflow.

In contrast, ad-hoc teams may struggle with these challenges due to a lack of cohesion and historical context, which can lead to misunderstandings, inefficiencies, and ultimately, lower quality outcomes. Thus, the preference for long-standing teams aligns with the principles of building reliable and high-performing teams in agile environments.