Understanding the Scrum Master’s Role in the Daily Scrum
The Daily Scrum is a crucial event in the Scrum framework where Developers plan and synchronize their work for the next 24 hours. The Scrum Master plays a supportive role, ensuring that the Developers conduct the meeting effectively and within the timebox but does not lead or control the discussions.
Exam Question
Which of the following services are appropriate for a Scrum Master in regard to the Daily Scrum?
(choose the best answer)
A. Lead the discussions.
B. Make sure that all 3 questions have been answered by each member of the team.
C. Keep track of whether each Developer has a chance to speak.
D. Teach the Developers to keep the Daily Scrum within the 15 minutes.
E. All of the above.
Correct Answer
D. Teach the Developers to keep the Daily Scrum within the 15 minutes.
Explanation
Correct Answer
D. Teach the Developers to keep the Daily Scrum within the 15 minutes:
The Scrum Master’s role is to coach the team on how to conduct the Daily Scrum efficiently. One of the key responsibilities is to ensure that the meeting is timeboxed to 15 minutes, promoting focus and discipline. The Scrum Master may also help the team understand the purpose of the Daily Scrum and guide them in self-managing the discussion to ensure it remains productive.
Why the Other Options Are Less Appropriate
A. Lead the discussions:
The Scrum Master should not lead the Daily Scrum. This meeting is for the Developers to inspect their progress toward the Sprint Goal and adjust their plan. The Scrum Master’s role is to facilitate the process but not to control or lead it.
B. Make sure that all 3 questions have been answered by each member of the team:
The traditional three questions format (“What did I do yesterday? What will I do today? Are there any impediments?”) is just one approach. The Scrum Guide does not mandate this format, and the team may choose different ways to organize their Daily Scrum. The Scrum Master should not enforce a specific structure but rather support the team in finding what works best for them.
C. Keep track of whether each Developer has a chance to speak:
While it’s important that all Developers have the opportunity to contribute, it is not the Scrum Master’s job to ensure this happens during the Daily Scrum. The Developers should self-manage this aspect of the meeting. The Scrum Master’s role is to help the team understand the importance of equal participation and self-management.
E. All of the above:
This option is incorrect because not all the listed actions are appropriate for the Scrum Master. The Scrum Master should focus on teaching and coaching the team rather than leading discussions or enforcing specific formats.
Relevance to the PSD Exam
Understanding the Scrum Master’s role in the Daily Scrum is essential for the PSD exam. It highlights the importance of self-management within the team and the Scrum Master’s role in fostering this behavior rather than leading or controlling the meeting.
Key Takeaways
- Scrum Master’s Role: The Scrum Master should coach the team on conducting the Daily Scrum effectively, ensuring it stays within the 15-minute timebox.
- Self-Management: The Developers are responsible for managing their discussions during the Daily Scrum, with the Scrum Master providing guidance as needed.
- Focus on Coaching: The Scrum Master’s primary service to the Daily Scrum is teaching the team how to manage the meeting effectively.
Conclusion
The Scrum Master plays a vital role in ensuring that the Daily Scrum is conducted effectively, but this role is focused on teaching and coaching rather than leading or directing the meeting. By helping the Developers manage the Daily Scrum within the 15-minute timebox, the Scrum Master supports the team in staying focused and productive. For more information on preparing for the PSD exam, visit our Professional Scrum Developer PSD™ Exam Prep.
