Determining the Number of Product Backlog Items for a Sprint
In Scrum, the responsibility of selecting the number of Product Backlog items for a Sprint lies with the Developers. They assess their capacity and the complexity of the tasks to determine what can realistically be completed within the Sprint.
Exam Question
Who determines how many Product Backlog items the Developers select for a Sprint?
(choose the best answer)
A. The Scrum Master.
B. The Product Owner.
C. The Developers.
D. The Scrum Team.
E. The stakeholders attending Sprint Planning.
Correct Answer
C. The Developers.
Explanation
Correct Answer
C. The Developers:
The Developers are responsible for determining how many Product Backlog items they can select for a Sprint. They assess their capacity, the complexity of the tasks, and their past performance to make an informed decision on what they can realistically accomplish within the timebox of the Sprint. This self-management and autonomy are key principles of Scrum, allowing the team to commit to a Sprint Goal based on their assessment.
Why the Other Options Are Less Effective
A. The Scrum Master:
The Scrum Master facilitates the Scrum events and helps remove impediments, but they do not decide on the number of Product Backlog items to select. This responsibility lies with the Developers.
B. The Product Owner:
The Product Owner prioritizes the Product Backlog and ensures that it reflects the most valuable items, but they do not decide how many items are selected for the Sprint. The Developers make this decision based on their capacity and capabilities.
D. The Scrum Team:
While the Scrum Team collaborates during Sprint Planning, the specific decision of how many items to take on is made by the Developers. The Scrum Team as a whole, including the Scrum Master and Product Owner, supports the process but does not make the final selection.
E. The stakeholders attending Sprint Planning:
Stakeholders do not typically attend Sprint Planning. Even if they provide input, they do not determine the number of items selected for the Sprint. This decision is made by the Developers based on their assessment.
Importance of Developer Responsibility
- Self-Management: Allowing Developers to determine their workload fosters self-management and accountability, which are core principles of Scrum.
- Realistic Planning: Developers have the best understanding of their capacity and the complexity of the work, leading to more realistic and achievable Sprint plans.
- Commitment: When Developers select the work, they are more committed to completing it within the Sprint, as they have made the decision based on their insights and capabilities.
Effective Practices for Sprint Planning
- Capacity Assessment: Developers assess their availability and capacity for the upcoming Sprint, considering factors such as holidays, vacations, and other commitments.
- Task Estimation: Use techniques like Planning Poker or T-shirt sizing to estimate the complexity and effort required for each Product Backlog item.
- Historical Data: Review past Sprint performance to make informed decisions about how much work can be realistically completed.
Relevance to the PSU I Exam
Understanding who is responsible for selecting the number of Product Backlog items for a Sprint is crucial for the PSU I exam. It demonstrates knowledge of the roles and responsibilities within a Scrum Team and the principles of self-management and accountability.
Key Takeaways
- The Developers determine how many Product Backlog items they can select for a Sprint.
- This decision is based on their capacity, complexity of tasks, and past performance.
- Allowing Developers to make this decision fosters self-management, realistic planning, and commitment.
Conclusion
In Scrum, the Developers are responsible for determining the number of Product Backlog items to select for a Sprint. This responsibility ensures that the team can make realistic and achievable commitments based on their capacity and understanding of the work. For more information on preparing for the PSU I exam, visit our Professional Scrum with UX PSU I™ Exam Prep.
