Managing External Dependencies in Scrum Teams
As a Scrum Master, managing dependencies and ensuring the smooth operation of multiple Scrum Teams working from the same Product Backlog is crucial. Handling external dependencies efficiently is key to maintaining productivity and delivering integrated Increments.
Exam Question
You are the Scrum Master for four Scrum Teams working from the same Product Backlog. Several of the developers come to you complaining that work identified for the upcoming two Sprints will require full-time commitment from a specialist who is external to the teams. What should the Scrum Master consider in this situation? (choose the best two answers)
- A. The benefit of Developers figuring out a solution for themselves.
- B. The desire to maintain a stable velocity.
- C. The need to have enough work to keep all Developers busy.
- D. The ability of the Scrum Teams to produce integrated Increments.
Correct Answers
A. The benefit of Developers figuring out a solution for themselves.
D. The ability of the Scrum Teams to produce integrated Increments.
Explanation
Why A and D are Correct
A. The benefit of Developers figuring out a solution for themselves:
Encouraging Developers to find solutions fosters self-management and ownership of their work. It also builds problem-solving skills and resilience within the team. Involving the team in finding solutions ensures that they remain engaged and take responsibility for overcoming obstacles.
D. The ability of the Scrum Teams to produce integrated Increments:
Ensuring that Scrum Teams can produce integrated Increments is essential for delivering value. Dependencies on external specialists must be managed carefully to avoid delays or impediments in the delivery of shippable products. The Scrum Master should facilitate coordination among teams and external specialists to maintain the flow of work and integration of increments.
Why B and C are Incorrect
B. The desire to maintain a stable velocity: While maintaining a stable velocity is important, it should not come at the cost of compromising the ability to deliver integrated Increments or solving critical dependencies. The focus should be on sustainable and high-quality delivery rather than just velocity.
C. The need to have enough work to keep all Developers busy: Keeping Developers busy should not be the primary goal. The focus should be on delivering valuable increments and resolving dependencies. Workload management should align with delivering the highest value and meeting the Sprint Goal.
Key Points
- Self-Management: Encourage Developers to take ownership and find solutions.
- Integrated Increments: Ensure that the teams can deliver integrated, valuable increments despite external dependencies.
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 how to manage external dependencies and foster self-management within Scrum Teams is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge emphasizes the importance of self-management and integrated delivery within the Scrum framework.
Conclusion
When dealing with dependencies on external specialists, the Scrum Master should focus on encouraging Developers to find solutions and ensuring the ability to produce integrated Increments. This approach aligns with Scrum principles of self-management and delivering high-quality, valuable increments.
For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.
