Managing Concerns About Progress and Money Spent in Scrum

In Scrum, addressing concerns about progress and financial expenditure requires transparency and effective communication. This topic is commonly tested in the PSM I exam to evaluate understanding of Scrum principles and stakeholder management.

Exam Question

A Project Manager working with your Scrum Team has raised concerns about progress and money spent. What are the two best responses?
(Choose the best two answers)
A. Scrum does not have Project Managers so disregard their concerns.
B. Promote transparency by sharing the Product Backlog and ensuring the Project Manager has access.
C. Show the Earned Value Analysis (EVA) report.
D. Have a discussion with the Project Manager, share the current impediments and forecast for the Sprint.
E. Share the last stakeholder briefing document prepared by the Product Owner.

Correct Answers

B. Promote transparency by sharing the Product Backlog and ensuring the Project Manager has access.
D. Have a discussion with the Project Manager, share the current impediments and forecast for the Sprint.

Key Strategies for Addressing Concerns

B. Promote transparency by sharing the Product Backlog and ensuring the Project Manager has access

Transparency is a core Scrum value. By providing the Project Manager with access to the Product Backlog, they can gain insight into the work that has been completed, what is currently in progress, and what is planned for the future. This visibility helps them understand the team’s priorities and progress, thereby addressing concerns about both progress and expenditure.

• Benefits of Transparency:
• Informed Decision-Making: The Project Manager can make informed decisions based on real-time data.
• Aligned Expectations: Ensures all stakeholders have a consistent understanding of progress and plans.
• Trust Building: Openness fosters trust and collaboration among team members and stakeholders.

D. Have a discussion with the Project Manager, share the current impediments and forecast for the Sprint

Effective communication is essential in Scrum. By engaging in a direct conversation with the Project Manager, you can address their concerns more comprehensively. Sharing the current impediments and forecast provides a clear picture of what challenges the team is facing and the expected outcomes for the Sprint.

• Benefits of Direct Communication:
• Immediate Clarification: Allows for immediate clarification of any concerns or misunderstandings.
• Problem-Solving: Facilitates collaborative problem-solving and decision-making.
• Alignment: Ensures that the Project Manager’s concerns are heard and addressed in a timely manner.

Examining the Other Options

A. Scrum does not have Project Managers so disregard their concerns: This response ignores the importance of stakeholder engagement and can lead to conflicts and misunderstandings. While Scrum does not include a Project Manager role, their concerns are valid and should be addressed respectfully and transparently.

C. Show the Earned Value Analysis (EVA) report: EVA is a traditional project management tool and is not typically used in Scrum. While it might provide some insights, it does not align with Scrum’s emphasis on transparency and continuous improvement.

E. Share the last stakeholder briefing document prepared by the Product Owner: While sharing stakeholder briefings can be useful, it may not provide the detailed and up-to-date information that the Project Manager needs. Direct access to the Product Backlog and a conversation about current impediments and forecasts are more effective strategies.

Responsibilities in Scrum

Product Owner: Ensures the Product Backlog is ordered and refined to maximize value and align with the team’s capacity. Works with the Scrum Team to ensure clarity and readiness of backlog items.

Scrum Master: Facilitates transparency and communication between the Scrum Team and stakeholders. Helps address impediments and ensures that Scrum practices are followed.

Developers: Collaborate to create a potentially shippable Increment and ensure all work meets the Definition of Done. Engage in transparent communication about progress and impediments.

Relevance to the PSM I Exam

Understanding how to effectively address concerns about progress and expenditure in a Scrum environment is crucial for the PSM I exam. It highlights the importance of transparency, communication, and stakeholder engagement, which are key elements of the Scrum framework.

Key Takeaways

• Transparency: Sharing the Product Backlog provides stakeholders with a clear view of progress and plans.
• Communication: Direct discussions about impediments and forecasts ensure concerns are addressed effectively.
• Engagement: Engaging stakeholders respectfully fosters collaboration and trust.

Conclusion

In summary, addressing concerns about progress and money spent in Scrum requires promoting transparency and engaging in direct communication with stakeholders. By sharing the Product Backlog and discussing current impediments and forecasts, Scrum Teams can effectively manage stakeholder concerns and ensure alignment with Scrum principles.

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