The Role of the Scrum Master in the Daily Scrum
The Daily Scrum is a critical event in the Scrum framework, serving as a daily planning and synchronization meeting for the Developers. Understanding the appropriate role of the Scrum Master in this event is essential for effective Scrum practice.
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
Why D is Correct
D. Teach the Developers to keep the Daily Scrum within the 15 minutes: The Scrum Master’s role is to coach the Developers in self-management and ensure that the Scrum events are productive and within the timebox. The Daily Scrum is timeboxed to 15 minutes, and it is the Scrum Master’s responsibility to teach the team to adhere to this timebox. This ensures that the meeting remains focused and efficient, allowing the Developers to plan their day effectively without unnecessary delays.
Why A, B, C, and E are Incorrect
A. Lead the discussions: The Scrum Master should not lead the discussions. The Daily Scrum is for the Developers to inspect their progress toward the Sprint Goal and adapt their plan for the next 24 hours. The Scrum Master facilitates but does not lead the discussions.
B. Make sure that all 3 questions have been answered by each member of the team: While the original three questions (What did I do yesterday? What will I do today? Are there any impediments?) are a guide, the focus should be on progress toward the Sprint Goal, not on strictly answering these questions.
C. Keep track of whether each Developer has a chance to speak: The Developers are responsible for managing the Daily Scrum themselves. The Scrum Master ensures the meeting happens and remains within the timebox but does not track individual participation.
E. All of the above: As explained, not all the listed services are appropriate for a Scrum Master regarding the Daily Scrum. The correct approach focuses on coaching the team to self-manage and adhere to the timebox.
Key Points
- Facilitation: The Scrum Master facilitates the Daily Scrum, ensuring it is productive and within the 15-minute timebox.
- Coaching: The Scrum Master coaches the Developers in self-management and effective communication during the Daily Scrum.
- Self-Management: The Developers are responsible for conducting the Daily Scrum and managing their progress.
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: Plan, manage, and execute all tasks necessary to deliver a potentially shippable Increment, ensuring quality and adherence to the Definition of Done.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding the appropriate role of the Scrum Master in the Daily Scrum is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge emphasizes the importance of facilitation, coaching, and self-management within the Scrum framework.
Conclusion
The Scrum Master plays a vital role in ensuring that the Daily Scrum is productive and timeboxed to 15 minutes. By teaching the Developers to manage the meeting themselves, the Scrum Master fosters a culture of self-management and efficient planning.
For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.
