Addressing Security Concerns in Scrum
Security is a critical aspect of software development, and it is important for the Scrum Team to handle such concerns effectively. When a Developer raises concerns about data security, the Scrum Master plays a key role in facilitating the resolution of these issues within the team.
Exam Question
A Developer takes the Scrum Master aside to express his concerns about data security issues. What should the Scrum Master do?
(choose the best answer)
A. Go check with the testers.
B. Create a Product Backlog item for security.
C. Tell the Product Owner to stop further development of features until the issues are fixed.
D. Ask the Developer to share the concern with the team as soon as possible.
E. Add security to the Definition of Done.
Correct Answer
D. Ask the Developer to share the concern with the team as soon as possible.
Explanation
Correct Answer
D. Ask the Developer to share the concern with the team as soon as possible:
The Scrum Master should encourage open communication within the Scrum Team. By asking the Developer to share their concerns with the entire team, the Scrum Master ensures that the issue is addressed collaboratively. This approach promotes transparency and allows the team to consider the security concerns in their ongoing work, possibly updating their processes or Definition of Done accordingly.
Why the Other Options Are Less Appropriate
A. Go check with the testers:
While testers might be involved in security testing, the concern should be addressed by the whole Scrum Team, not just a subset. The Scrum Master should facilitate the discussion rather than isolating the issue to just the testers.
B. Create a Product Backlog item for security:
While security concerns might eventually lead to a new Product Backlog item, the immediate priority is to ensure the team is aware of the issue and can address it collectively. Creating a Product Backlog item without team discussion could lead to misunderstandings about the priority and scope of the issue.
C. Tell the Product Owner to stop further development of features until the issues are fixed:
Stopping development without a team discussion may be premature and could disrupt the flow of work. The Scrum Master should first ensure the concern is discussed by the team to determine the best course of action.
E. Add security to the Definition of Done:
Security considerations might indeed be added to the Definition of Done, but this decision should come after the team has discussed and agreed upon it. The Scrum Master should not unilaterally make this change without team consensus.
Relevance to the PSD Exam
Understanding how to handle security concerns within a Scrum framework is crucial for the PSD exam. It highlights the importance of team collaboration, transparency, and effective communication in addressing potential risks in software development.
Key Takeaways
- Team Collaboration: When concerns arise, the Scrum Master should encourage the Developer to discuss the issue with the entire team, promoting transparency and collective problem-solving.
- Security in Scrum: Security concerns should be integrated into the team’s processes, possibly leading to updates in the Definition of Done or new Product Backlog items.
Conclusion
Handling security concerns effectively requires open communication and collaboration within the Scrum Team. The Scrum Master should facilitate discussions that allow the team to address the issue collectively, ensuring that security is adequately considered in the development process. For more information on preparing for the PSD exam, visit our Professional Scrum Developer PSD™ Exam Prep.
