Coordination Challenges in Multiple Scrum Teams

When multiple Scrum Teams are working on the same product, coordination challenges inevitably arise. A comprehensive communication plan alone is not sufficient to fully address these challenges.

Exam Question

True or False: Many Scrum Teams working on the same product create coordination challenges that can be fully addressed by creating a communication plan.
A. True
B. False

Correct Answer

B. False

Explanation

Why False?

Complex Coordination Needs:
While a communication plan is essential for managing coordination among multiple Scrum Teams, it is not sufficient on its own. The complexities involved in coordinating the work of multiple teams require more robust and integrated approaches, such as:

• Frequent Synchronization: Regular synchronization meetings, such as the Nexus Daily Scrum or Scrum-of-Scrums, ensure that all teams are aligned and aware of each other’s progress and dependencies.
• Integrated Planning: Integrated Sprint Planning sessions help teams to plan their work in a coordinated manner, considering dependencies and shared goals.
• Transparency and Visibility: Tools and practices that enhance transparency and visibility of the work across teams are critical. This includes shared backlogs, integrated boards, and regular cross-team reviews.
• Dependency Management: Identifying and managing dependencies proactively through practices like Cross-Team Refinement and maintaining a Nexus Sprint Backlog.
• Shared Definition of Done: A shared Definition of Done across teams ensures consistency in the quality and integration of the work delivered by different teams.

Additional Considerations

Collaborative Culture:
Promoting a collaborative culture where teams communicate openly and frequently is crucial. This involves fostering a mindset of collective ownership and shared responsibility.

Technical Practices:
Adopting technical practices such as Continuous Integration (CI), automated testing, and DevOps can significantly aid in reducing integration issues and ensuring smoother coordination among teams.

Relevance to the SPS Exam

Understanding the limitations of a communication plan and the need for comprehensive coordination mechanisms is crucial for the SPS exam. This knowledge demonstrates the ability to manage large-scale Scrum implementations effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Coordination challenges in multiple Scrum Teams cannot be fully addressed by a communication plan alone.
• Frequent synchronization, integrated planning, transparency, dependency management, and a shared Definition of Done are essential for effective coordination.
• A collaborative culture and robust technical practices further enhance coordination and integration.

Conclusion

Managing coordination among multiple Scrum Teams requires a multifaceted approach that goes beyond just a communication plan. For more information on preparing for the SPS exam, visit our Scaled Professional Scrum SPS™ Exam Prep.