Making Non-Functional Requirements Visible in Scrum
Non-functional requirements (NFRs) are essential for ensuring the overall quality and performance of a product. These requirements need to be visible to the Scrum Team to ensure they are addressed effectively. This article explores a specific exam question about how to make non-functional requirements visible in Scrum, providing detailed explanations and insights relevant to the PSM I exam.
Exam Question
What are two effective ways for the Scrum Team to make non-functional requirements visible?
(choose the best two answers)
- A. Add them to the Product Backlog to ensure transparency.
- B. Add them to the Definition of Done so work is taken care of every Sprint.
- C. Put them on a separate list on the Scrum board, available for all to see.
- D. Run the integration and regression tests before the end of the Sprint, and capture the open work for the Sprint Backlog of the next Sprint.
Correct Answers
A. Add them to the Product Backlog to ensure transparency.
B. Add them to the Definition of Done so work is taken care of every Sprint.
Explanation
Correct Answers
A. Add them to the Product Backlog to ensure transparency: Adding non-functional requirements to the Product Backlog makes them visible to the entire Scrum Team and stakeholders. This ensures that these requirements are considered during Sprint Planning and prioritized alongside functional requirements. By being part of the Product Backlog, NFRs are transparent and can be addressed systematically.
B. Add them to the Definition of Done so work is taken care of every Sprint: Including non-functional requirements in the Definition of Done ensures that these requirements are met consistently with each Increment. This practice embeds the NFRs into the team’s workflow, making sure that they are not overlooked and are considered part of the quality criteria for each Sprint.
Incorrect Answers
C. Put them on a separate list on the Scrum board, available for all to see: While this might provide visibility, it separates NFRs from the main workflow and can lead to them being ignored or deprioritized. Integrating them into the Product Backlog and Definition of Done is more effective.
D. Run the integration and regression tests before the end of the Sprint, and capture the open work for the Sprint Backlog of the next Sprint: This approach focuses on testing but does not ensure that non-functional requirements are visible or consistently addressed. It can lead to last-minute fixes rather than proactive planning and integration of NFRs.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: The Product Owner ensures that non-functional requirements are included in the Product Backlog and prioritized appropriately. They work with stakeholders to understand the importance of these requirements and incorporate them into the overall product strategy.
- Scrum Master: The Scrum Master facilitates the process of making NFRs visible by ensuring that the team understands the importance of including them in the Product Backlog and Definition of Done. They help the team adhere to these practices consistently.
- Developers: Developers implement non-functional requirements as part of their work, ensuring that they are met in each Increment. By following the Definition of Done, they incorporate NFRs into their daily tasks and development process.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding how to make non-functional requirements visible is crucial for the PSM I exam. It demonstrates knowledge of Scrum practices and the importance of transparency and quality in product development. Mastering this concept ensures that Scrum Teams can effectively manage and meet all types of requirements.
Key Takeaways
- Adding non-functional requirements to the Product Backlog ensures transparency and systematic addressing.
- Including NFRs in the Definition of Done ensures they are consistently met with each Increment.
- Effective management of NFRs involves collaboration between the Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Developers.
Conclusion
Making non-functional requirements visible by adding them to the Product Backlog and Definition of Done ensures that they are consistently addressed and integrated into the development process. This practice enhances transparency and quality in Scrum. Understanding this concept is essential for effective Scrum implementation and success in 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.
