Scrum

Definition

Scrum is an agile framework used for managing and completing complex projects, especially in software development. It emphasizes teamwork, accountability, and iterative progress through short cycles called sprints. Scrum enables cross-functional teams to collaborate effectively, adapt to changing requirements, and deliver value incrementally.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Scrum relies on defined roles: the Product Owner who prioritizes the backlog, the Scrum Master who facilitates the process, and the Development Team who executes the work.
2. Daily stand-up meetings, known as Daily Scrums, are essential for team communication and to assess progress towards sprint goals.
3. At the end of each sprint, a review meeting takes place to showcase completed work and gather feedback from stakeholders.
4. The retrospective meeting held after each sprint allows the team to reflect on their process and identify improvements for future sprints.
5. Scrum encourages transparency, inspection, and adaptation throughout the project lifecycle, allowing teams to respond effectively to changes.

Review Questions

• How does Scrum facilitate collaboration among development teams?
  • Scrum enhances collaboration by establishing clear roles within the team—such as Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Development Team—and promoting open communication through daily stand-up meetings. These daily check-ins allow team members to discuss progress, share challenges, and align on tasks. By working in short sprints, teams are able to focus on specific deliverables while continuously adapting based on feedback and changing requirements.
• Evaluate the role of the Scrum Master in a Scrum team and how they contribute to effective project management.
  • The Scrum Master plays a crucial role in facilitating Scrum practices and ensuring that the team adheres to agile principles. They help remove any obstacles that may impede progress and foster an environment of continuous improvement. By coaching team members on effective collaboration and self-organization, the Scrum Master ensures that the team can focus on delivering value while navigating challenges that arise during the project.
• Discuss how Scrum’s iterative approach impacts a team's ability to adapt to changing project requirements.
  • Scrum’s iterative approach allows teams to break down complex projects into manageable sprints, enabling them to review and adjust their work regularly. This structure supports flexibility because at the end of each sprint, teams can assess their progress against current goals and stakeholder feedback. Such frequent reassessment not only helps teams pivot quickly in response to changes but also ensures that they continuously deliver valuable features aligned with user needs.

Related terms

Sprint: A set time frame, usually between one and four weeks, during which specific project work is completed and made ready for review.

Product Backlog: A prioritized list of tasks, features, and requirements that need to be addressed in the project, which evolves as the project progresses.

Scrum Master: The facilitator for the Scrum team, responsible for ensuring that the team follows Scrum practices and removes obstacles that hinder progress.