Completing Product Backlog Items During the Sprint
In Scrum, the goal of each Sprint is to deliver a potentially shippable Increment that meets the Definition of Done. Understanding the amount of work required to complete a Product Backlog item during the Sprint is crucial for maintaining high-quality standards and achieving Sprint Goals.
Exam Question
How much work is required of the Developers to complete a Product Backlog item selected during the Sprint Planning? (choose the best answer)
- A. A proportional amount of time on analysis, design, development, and testing.
- B. As much as is required to meet the Scrum Team’s Definition of Done.
- C. All development work and at least some testing.
- D. As much as they can fit into the Sprint, with remaining work deferred to the next Sprint.
Correct Answer
B. As much as is required to meet the Scrum Team’s Definition of Done.
Explanation
Why B is Correct
B. As much as is required to meet the Scrum Team’s Definition of Done: The Definition of Done is a shared understanding of what it means for work to be complete, ensuring that any Increment delivered is potentially shippable and meets quality standards. This includes all necessary work such as analysis, design, development, testing, and any other activities required to ensure the Increment is fully functional and meets acceptance criteria. By adhering to the Definition of Done, the Developers ensure that each Product Backlog item is truly complete and ready for release.
Why A, C, and D are Incorrect
A. A proportional amount of time on analysis, design, development, and testing: Scrum does not require a proportional allocation of time across different activities. Instead, it focuses on the completion of work to meet the Definition of Done, regardless of how time is distributed among tasks.
C. All development work and at least some testing: Completing only some testing does not ensure that the Increment meets the Definition of Done. Comprehensive testing and other necessary activities are required to ensure the Increment is potentially shippable.
D. As much as they can fit into the Sprint, with remaining work deferred to the next Sprint: Deferring incomplete work to the next Sprint is not in line with Scrum principles. The goal is to complete all selected work according to the Definition of Done within the current Sprint.
Key Points
- Definition of Done: A shared understanding of what it means for work to be complete, ensuring quality and functionality.
- Focus on Completion: The Developers must complete all necessary activities to meet the Definition of Done within the Sprint.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: Ensures the Product Backlog is ordered and refined to maximize value and align with the team’s capacity.
- Scrum Master: Facilitates Scrum events, removes impediments, and helps teams adhere to Scrum principles.
- Developers: Collaborate to complete all tasks necessary to deliver a potentially shippable Increment, including ensuring that all Product Backlog items meet the Definition of Done.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding the importance of completing Product Backlog items according to the Definition of Done is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge highlights the commitment to delivering high-quality Increments and maintaining the integrity of the Scrum framework.
Conclusion
The Developers must complete all necessary work to meet the Scrum Team’s Definition of Done for each Product Backlog item selected during Sprint Planning. This approach ensures that each Increment is potentially shippable, meets quality standards, and is ready for release.
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