Using Scrum for Large-Scale Product Delivery
Scaling Scrum for large-scale product delivery involves unique challenges and considerations. It’s essential to understand how to adapt Scrum practices to ensure effective collaboration and productivity among multiple Scrum Teams.
Exam Question
Which statements are true regarding using Scrum for large-scale product delivery?
(choose the best two answers)
A. Splitting a team member’s time between multiple Scrum Teams is often less productive than focusing that team member on a single team’s Sprint Backlog.
B. A well-structured and refined Product Backlog can minimize and often eliminate dependencies between multiple Scrum Teams working together on a product during a Sprint.
C. Scrum requires all team members work full time on a single team.
D. Changes to the core Scrum framework are needed to be successful with Scrum at large scale.
Correct Answers
A. Splitting a team member’s time between multiple Scrum Teams is often less productive than focusing that team member on a single team’s Sprint Backlog.
B. A well-structured and refined Product Backlog can minimize and often eliminate dependencies between multiple Scrum Teams working together on a product during a Sprint.
Explanation
Correct Answers
A. Splitting a team member’s time between multiple Scrum Teams is often less productive than focusing that team member on a single team’s Sprint Backlog:
When team members are dedicated to a single team, they can maintain focus and continuity, which increases their productivity and allows for better collaboration and communication within the team. Splitting time between multiple teams can lead to context switching, reduced efficiency, and potential misunderstandings.
B. A well-structured and refined Product Backlog can minimize and often eliminate dependencies between multiple Scrum Teams working together on a product during a Sprint:
A refined Product Backlog helps in identifying and addressing dependencies early. By organizing and prioritizing the backlog effectively, teams can reduce the risk of overlapping work and dependencies that could hinder progress. Regular refinement sessions allow for continuous adjustment and alignment of work across multiple teams.
Why the Other Options Are Less Accurate
C. Scrum requires all team members work full time on a single team:
While it is beneficial for team members to focus on one team, Scrum does not strictly require full-time dedication to a single team. In practice, team members may have other responsibilities or roles, though this can complicate coordination and focus.
D. Changes to the core Scrum framework are needed to be successful with Scrum at large scale:
Scrum can be scaled using frameworks like Nexus, LeSS, or SAFe without altering the core principles of Scrum. These frameworks provide additional practices and structures to manage multiple teams working on the same product without changing the foundational Scrum framework.
Benefits of Focus and Refinement
- Increased Productivity: Team members focusing on a single team’s backlog can contribute more effectively, avoiding the inefficiencies of context switching.
- Reduced Dependencies: A well-maintained Product Backlog minimizes dependencies, ensuring that teams can work more autonomously and efficiently.
- Better Collaboration: Focused teams and clear backlogs enhance collaboration and communication, leading to more cohesive and productive teams.
Relevance to the SPS Exam
Understanding the principles of managing multiple Scrum Teams and the importance of backlog refinement is crucial for the SPS exam. This knowledge demonstrates the ability to apply Scrum practices effectively at scale, ensuring successful large-scale product delivery.
Key Takeaways
- Focused team members on a single team’s backlog improve productivity and collaboration.
- A well-structured and refined Product Backlog is essential for minimizing dependencies in large-scale Scrum environments.
- Scaling Scrum does not require changes to its core framework but can benefit from additional structures and practices provided by scaling frameworks.
Conclusion
Effective management of multiple Scrum Teams involves ensuring focused team members and maintaining a well-structured Product Backlog. These practices help in minimizing dependencies and improving overall productivity. For more information on preparing for the SPS exam, visit our Scaled Professional Scrum SPS™ Exam Prep.
