Minimizing Dependencies Between Scrum Teams
In Scrum, managing dependencies between multiple Scrum Teams is crucial for smooth product development. This article explores the best approach to minimize dependencies between Scrum Teams when developing a new product, with a focus on the PSPO I exam.
Exam Question
Your management has asked you to take the lead in the development of a new product. Six teams new to Scrum will build this product.
You have gathered a number of requirements and ideas into an early form of a Product Backlog. How would you minimize dependencies between the Scrum Teams?
(choose the best answer)
- A. You create an independent Product Backlog per Scrum Team.
- B. You identify the dependencies and re-order the Product Backlog for them.
- C. You work with the Developers on how to best analyze and break apart the work.
- D. You divide the Product Backlog items among the six Product Owners.
- E. You raise this as an impediment with the Scrum Master.
Correct Answer
C. You work with the Developers on how to best analyze and break apart the work.
Explanation
Correct Answer
C. You work with the Developers on how to best analyze and break apart the work:
Collaborating with the Developers to analyze and decompose the work ensures that dependencies are identified and addressed at the earliest stage. This approach promotes shared understanding and enables the teams to plan and execute their work with minimal interdependencies. It also aligns with Scrum principles, where the Scrum Team collectively manages the Product Backlog and its items.
Incorrect Answers
A. You create an independent Product Backlog per Scrum Team:
Creating separate Product Backlogs for each team can lead to misalignment and inconsistency. It goes against the Scrum principle of having a single Product Backlog to maintain a unified vision and priority for the product.
B. You identify the dependencies and re-order the Product Backlog for them:
While re-ordering the Product Backlog to address dependencies can be helpful, it does not involve the Developers in the process of understanding and managing these dependencies, which is crucial for effective collaboration.
D. You divide the Product Backlog items among the six Product Owners:
Having multiple Product Owners for a single product can create confusion and lack of coherence in the product vision and priorities. Scrum recommends a single Product Owner for a unified Product Backlog.
E. You raise this as an impediment with the Scrum Master:
Raising dependencies as an impediment is not the most proactive approach. The Scrum Team should collaboratively work to identify and manage dependencies during the planning and decomposition of work.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: Ensures that the Product Backlog is well-ordered and refined to maximize product value and minimize dependencies.
- Scrum Master: Facilitates the Scrum process, helping the team address impediments and promoting collaboration.
- Developers: Collaborate to analyze and break down work to manage dependencies and ensure a smooth workflow.
Relevance to the PSPO I Exam
Understanding how to minimize dependencies between Scrum Teams is crucial for the PSPO I exam. This knowledge ensures that Product Owners and Scrum Teams can effectively manage and prioritize work, promoting efficient and coordinated product development.
Key Takeaways
- Collaborate with Developers to analyze and decompose work, minimizing dependencies.
- Maintain a single Product Backlog to ensure alignment and coherence.
- Involve the entire Scrum Team in managing and addressing dependencies.
Conclusion
To minimize dependencies between Scrum Teams, it is essential to work with the Developers on how to best analyze and break apart the work. For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSPO I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.
