Final answer:
In Lean software development, 'optimize the whole' means looking at the whole system for optimization opportunities and considering how well the parts work together. Leaders focus on the whole picture while other team members may focus on specific parts of the system.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Lean software development, 'optimize the whole' means that rather than trying to optimize one part, it is important to look at the whole system for optimization opportunities. The ability of a system to achieve its purpose depends on how well the parts work together, not just how well they perform individually. Leaders in Lean development focus on the whole picture, considering all aspects of the software product, while other team members may focus on specific parts of the system.