Supporting a Scrum Team Lacking Necessary Tools and Environment

When a Scrum Team does not have the tools and environment to completely finish each selected Product Backlog item, the Scrum Master plays a crucial role in addressing the issue and ensuring the team can still work effectively within the Scrum framework.

Exam Question

Which two things are appropriate for a Scrum Master to do, if the Scrum Team does not have the tools and environment to completely finish each selected Product Backlog item? (choose the best two answers)

• A. Refocus the current Sprint on establishing the Scrum Team’s environment instead of delivering an Increment.
• B. Have the Scrum Team establish a Definition of Done that is actually possible to achieve given the current circumstances.
• C. Declare the Scrum Team not ready for Scrum.
• D. Encourage the Product Owner to accept partially done Increments until the situation improves.
• E. Coach the Scrum Team to improve its skills, tools and environment over time and adjust the Definition of Done accordingly.

Correct Answers

B. Have the Scrum Team establish a Definition of Done that is actually possible to achieve given the current circumstances.
E. Coach the Scrum Team to improve its skills, tools and environment over time and adjust the Definition of Done accordingly.

Explanation

Why B is Correct

B. Have the Scrum Team establish a Definition of Done that is actually possible to achieve given the current circumstances:

The Definition of Done (DoD) sets the quality standards for the work the Scrum Team completes. If the current tools and environment limit the team’s ability to meet a high standard, the DoD should be adjusted to reflect what is realistically achievable. This ensures transparency and sets clear expectations for what the team can deliver.

Why E is Correct

E. Coach the Scrum Team to improve its skills, tools and environment over time and adjust the Definition of Done accordingly:

Continuous improvement is a core principle of Scrum. The Scrum Master should coach the team to gradually enhance their skills, tools, and environment. As the team improves, the DoD can be updated to reflect higher standards of quality. This approach promotes growth and ensures the team is always working towards better performance.

Why A, C, and D are Incorrect

A. Refocus the current Sprint on establishing the Scrum Team’s environment instead of delivering an Increment: While improving the environment is important, completely refocusing a Sprint away from delivering value contradicts the purpose of Sprints, which is to deliver potentially shippable increments of product.

C. Declare the Scrum Team not ready for Scrum: This is a negative and unproductive approach. The goal should be to support and coach the team to overcome their challenges, not to declare them unfit for Scrum.

D. Encourage the Product Owner to accept partially done Increments until the situation improves: Delivering partially done increments violates the principle of delivering potentially shippable increments. It’s better to adjust the DoD to reflect what can be realistically achieved and work towards improvement.

Key Points

• Definition of Done: Adjusting the DoD to match current capabilities ensures transparency and sets achievable standards.
• Continuous Improvement: Coaching the team to gradually enhance their tools and skills promotes long-term growth and improved performance.

Responsibilities in Scrum

• Product Owner: Ensures the Product Backlog is ordered and refined to maximize value and align with the team’s capacity.
• Scrum Master: Facilitates Scrum events, removes impediments, and helps teams adhere to Scrum principles.
• Developers: Plan, manage, and execute all tasks necessary to deliver a potentially shippable Increment, ensuring quality and adherence to the Definition of Done.

Relevance to the PSM I Exam

Understanding how to support a Scrum Team lacking necessary tools and environment is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge emphasizes the importance of realistic standards and continuous improvement within the Scrum framework.

Conclusion

When a Scrum Team does not have the tools and environment to finish each selected Product Backlog item, the Scrum Master should help the team establish a realistic Definition of Done and coach them to improve over time. These actions ensure the team can deliver value while continuously working towards higher standards.

For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.