Maintaining Quality in Scrum Through Definition of Done

The Definition of Done (DoD) is a crucial element in Scrum, ensuring that all Product Backlog items meet the necessary quality standards before they are considered complete. This article explores a specific exam question about altering the Definition of Done and the appropriate actions a Scrum Master should take in such a situation, providing detailed explanations and insights relevant to the PSM II exam.

Exam Question

You are a Scrum Master for a Scrum Team and one of the developers approaches you and says: Every Sprint we are not completing regression testing for all of the selected Product Backlog items in the Sprint. Regression testing is part of the Definition of Done. We have discussed with the Product Owner and decided to change the Definition of Done to remove regression testing.
Which two actions are appropriate in this situation? (choose the best two answers)

• A. Disagree with the decision and tell them that having a stringent Definition of Done is important for the quality of the product, and they need to follow it.
• B. Agree with altering the Definition of Done as the Developers and Product Owner are in agreement.
• C. Ask the Developers and the Product Owner what problem they are going to solve by altering the Definition of Done and removing regression testing from it. Will this raise transparency or improve quality?
• D. Ask the Developers and Product Owner, “Does removing regression testing from the Definition of Done allow the team to produce potentially releasable increments at the end of every Sprint?”

Correct Answers

C. Ask the Developers and the Product Owner what problem they are going to solve by altering the Definition of Done and removing regression testing from it. Will this raise transparency or improve quality?
D. Ask the Developers and Product Owner, “Does removing regression testing from the Definition of Done allow the team to produce potentially releasable increments at the end of every Sprint?”

Explanation

Correct Answers

C. Ask the Developers and the Product Owner what problem they are going to solve by altering the Definition of Done and removing regression testing from it. Will this raise transparency or improve quality?: This approach encourages the team to critically assess the impact of their decision. By questioning the rationale behind removing regression testing, the Scrum Master helps the team consider whether this change will genuinely improve their process or if it will undermine the quality and transparency of their work.

D. Ask the Developers and Product Owner, “Does removing regression testing from the Definition of Done allow the team to produce potentially releasable increments at the end of every Sprint?”: This question prompts the team to think about the core objective of the Definition of Done: producing potentially releasable increments. If removing regression testing compromises this goal, then the decision may need to be reconsidered.

Incorrect Answers

A. Disagree with the decision and tell them that having a stringent Definition of Done is important for the quality of the product, and they need to follow it: While maintaining a high-quality standard is crucial, outright disagreement without discussion can create resistance and does not foster a collaborative environment. The Scrum Master should facilitate understanding and consensus rather than imposing decisions.

B. Agree with altering the Definition of Done as the Developers and Product Owner are in agreement: Agreeing without questioning the implications of the change can lead to a decline in product quality. It is essential to ensure that all changes to the Definition of Done are made with a clear understanding of their impact on the team’s ability to deliver a potentially releasable product increment.

Responsibilities in Scrum

• Product Owner: The Product Owner collaborates with the Developers to define and maintain the Definition of Done. They ensure that the product meets the required standards and is potentially releasable at the end of each Sprint.
• Scrum Master: The Scrum Master facilitates discussions about the Definition of Done and ensures that any changes support the team’s ability to deliver high-quality increments. They coach the team to understand the implications of altering the DoD.
• Developers: Developers are responsible for meeting the standards set in the Definition of Done. They work to ensure that all aspects of the DoD are achievable and contribute to the delivery of a potentially releasable increment.

Relevance to the PSM II Exam

Understanding the importance of the Definition of Done and the appropriate actions to take when changes are proposed is crucial for the PSM II exam. It demonstrates advanced knowledge of Scrum principles and the importance of maintaining quality and transparency in the development process. Mastering this concept ensures that Scrum Masters can guide their teams in making informed decisions that uphold the integrity of the Scrum framework.

Key Takeaways

• The Definition of Done is essential for ensuring the quality and transparency of the product.
• Changes to the DoD should be carefully considered and discussed to understand their impact on the team’s ability to deliver potentially releasable increments.
• The Scrum Master plays a crucial role in facilitating these discussions and coaching the team on the importance of the DoD.

Conclusion

Maintaining the quality of the product in Scrum requires a clear and stringent Definition of Done. When changes to the DoD are proposed, the Scrum Master should facilitate discussions that help the team understand the implications of these changes. By ensuring that the DoD supports the delivery of potentially releasable increments, the Scrum Team can maintain high standards of quality and transparency. Understanding these principles is essential for effective Scrum implementation and success in the PSM II exam. For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM II Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.