Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)Scrum FrameworkMedium
A Scrum Team is about to start its first Sprint. The Product Owner has a clear Product Goal and a well-ordered Product Backlog. During Sprint Planning, the Developers are struggling to understand how much work they can realistically pull into the Sprint and commit to. What is the primary purpose of the Sprint Goal in this scenario?
- ATo serve as a strict commitment that must be met regardless of challenges.
- BTo provide flexibility regarding the Product Backlog items selected for the Sprint.
- CTo define the overarching objective for the Sprint, guiding the Developers' work.
- DTo act as a detailed list of all tasks to be completed within the Sprint.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. To define the overarching objective for the Sprint, guiding the Developers' work.
The Sprint Goal is the single objective for the Sprint. Although the Product Backlog items selected may be flexible, the Sprint Goal provides focus and coherence, guiding the Developers on *why* they are building the Increment.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The Sprint Goal is a commitment, but the scope (Product Backlog items) can be negotiated if it puts the Sprint Goal at risk, showing flexibility.
- B. While it allows flexibility in scope, its *primary* purpose is to provide focus, not just flexibility.
- D. The Sprint Goal is a high-level objective, not a detailed task list; the Sprint Backlog contains the detailed work.
Sprint Goal as Focus
The Sprint Goal is the single, measurable objective for the Sprint that provides coherence and focus for the Developers' work, allowing flexibility in the selected Product Backlog items.
- Single objective.
- Created during Sprint Planning.
- Provides focus and flexibility.
Memory trick: The Sprint Goal is the compass, pointing the team towards a single, clear destination for the Sprint.