Adjusting Sprint Work: Roles and Responsibilities
During a Sprint, situations may arise where the Developers realize they will not be able to finish the complete forecast. In such scenarios, it’s crucial to know who should be present to review and adjust the Sprint work selected.
Exam Question
During a Sprint, it has been determined that the Developers will not be able to finish the complete forecast. Who should be present to review and adjust the Sprint work selected? (choose the best answer)
- A. The Product Owner and all stakeholders.
- B. The Product Owner and the Developers.
- C. The Developers.
- D. The Scrum Master, the project manager, and the Developers.
Correct Answer
B. The Product Owner and the Developers.
Explanation
Why B is Correct
B. The Product Owner and the Developers: In Scrum, the Product Owner is accountable for maximizing the value of the product and managing the Product Backlog. The Developers are responsible for completing the work forecasted to meet the Sprint Goal. When it becomes clear that the Developers cannot complete the forecasted work, the Product Owner and the Developers must collaborate to review and adjust the Sprint work. This collaboration ensures that the most valuable work is prioritized, and any necessary adjustments are made to align with the Sprint Goal.
Why A, C, and D are Incorrect
A. The Product Owner and all stakeholders: While stakeholders provide valuable input during the Sprint Review, they are not typically involved in the day-to-day adjustments during a Sprint.
C. The Developers: The Developers alone cannot make decisions about adjusting the scope of the Sprint without the Product Owner, who is responsible for maximizing value and managing the Product Backlog.
D. The Scrum Master, the project manager, and the Developers: Scrum does not include the role of a project manager. The Scrum Master facilitates the Scrum process but does not have decision-making authority over Sprint scope adjustments. This responsibility lies with the Product Owner and the Developers.
Key Points
- Collaboration: Effective collaboration between the Product Owner and the Developers is essential to review and adjust the Sprint work.
- Value Maximization: The Product Owner’s involvement ensures that adjustments are made to maximize the value delivered by the Scrum Team.
- Sprint Goal Alignment: Adjustments made with the Product Owner’s input help ensure that the Sprint Goal remains achievable and aligned with the product vision.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: Ensures the Product Backlog is ordered and refined to maximize value and align with the team’s capacity. Collaborates with the Developers to adjust Sprint work when necessary.
- Scrum Master: Facilitates Scrum events, removes impediments, and helps teams adhere to Scrum principles but does not make decisions about Sprint scope adjustments.
- Developers: Collaborate to complete all tasks necessary to deliver a potentially shippable Increment, ensuring all work meets the Definition of Done. Work with the Product Owner to adjust Sprint work as needed.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding the roles and responsibilities involved in adjusting Sprint work is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge ensures that you can effectively manage scope changes during a Sprint and maintain alignment with the Sprint Goal.
Conclusion
When the Developers realize they cannot complete the forecasted work during a Sprint, the Product Owner and the Developers should review and adjust the Sprint work selected. This collaboration ensures that the most valuable work is prioritized, and the Sprint Goal remains achievable. Understanding this dynamic is essential for effective Scrum implementation and is a key topic for the PSM I exam.
For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.