Understanding When a Sprint Might Be Cancelled
In Scrum, the decision to cancel a Sprint is not taken lightly. It is typically based on specific circumstances that render the Sprint Goal unattainable. This article delves into the conditions under which a Sprint might be canceled.
Exam Question
When might a Sprint be cancelled?
(choose the best answer)
A. When it becomes clear that not everything will be finished by the end of the Sprint.
B. When the Developers determine the product plan is infeasible.
C. When the sales department has an important new opportunity.
D. When the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete.
Correct Answer
D. When the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete.
Explanation
Correct Answer
D. When the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete:
The primary reason for canceling a Sprint is when the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete. This can happen due to significant changes in market conditions, organizational shifts, or other external factors that negate the relevance or value of the Sprint Goal. Since the purpose of the Sprint is to achieve the Sprint Goal, if it becomes obsolete, the work being done loses its purpose.
Incorrect Answers
A. When it becomes clear that not everything will be finished by the end of the Sprint:
Not finishing all work by the end of the Sprint is a common scenario and is not a valid reason for canceling the Sprint. The Scrum Team learns from the experience and uses the Sprint Review and Retrospective to adapt and improve future Sprints.
B. When the Developers determine the product plan is infeasible:
If the Developers find the product plan infeasible, they should address this during the Sprint through collaboration with the Product Owner and adjusting the Sprint Backlog. This situation should be managed through inspection and adaptation rather than cancellation.
C. When the sales department has an important new opportunity:
While new opportunities are important, they do not justify canceling a Sprint. The Product Owner can adjust the Product Backlog and consider new opportunities in future Sprints, but the current Sprint should continue to deliver value based on the existing Sprint Goal.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: The Product Owner has the authority to cancel a Sprint if the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete. This decision must be based on an assessment of the value and relevance of the Sprint Goal.
- Scrum Master: The Scrum Master facilitates the process and ensures that the reasons for canceling a Sprint are clearly communicated and understood. They help the team manage the transition and plan for the next steps.
- Developers: The Developers continue to work towards the Sprint Goal and adapt their work as needed. They provide feedback on feasibility and progress but do not have the authority to cancel the Sprint.
Relevance to the PSPO I Exam
Understanding the conditions under which a Sprint can be canceled is crucial for the PSPO I exam. This knowledge ensures that candidates appreciate the importance of maintaining focus on the Sprint Goal and making strategic decisions that maximize value.
Key Takeaways
- The primary reason for canceling a Sprint is the obsolescence of the Sprint Goal.
- Cancellation is a decision made by the Product Owner.
- Scrum emphasizes adaptation and learning, even when challenges arise during the Sprint.
Conclusion
Canceling a Sprint is a rare event in Scrum, driven by the obsolescence of the Sprint Goal. By focusing on the value and relevance of the Sprint Goal, Scrum Teams can maintain their direction and purpose. For more insights and preparation tips for the PSPO I exam, visit our PSPO I Exam Prep.
