Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)Scrum Theory & PrinciplesHard
A Scrum Team is working on a complex system where the interdependencies between components are not fully understood. Despite this, the team attempts to plan every detail of the entire project upfront. This approach is in direct opposition to which core principle of managing complexity in Scrum?
- AMinimize technical debt.
- BEmbrace emergent design.
- CPrioritize stakeholder satisfaction.
- DFocus on detailed upfront planning.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Embrace emergent design.
In complex environments, detailed upfront planning is ineffective because much is unknown. Scrum embraces empiricism and emergent design, meaning solutions and understanding evolve through iterative work, feedback, and adaptation. Planning every detail upfront for a complex system directly contradicts this principle.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Minimizing technical debt is important but not the core principle being violated by upfront detailed planning in complexity.
- C. Prioritizing stakeholder satisfaction is a goal, but not the principle for managing complexity itself.
- D. This is the incorrect approach being described in the scenario, not the principle it opposes.
Complexity Management in Scrum
Scrum thrives in complexity by using an iterative, incremental, and empirical approach, embracing emergent design rather than detailed upfront planning.
- Complexity requires empiricism.
- Solutions emerge over time.
- Avoids detailed upfront planning.
- Feedback loops are crucial.
Memory trick: Navigate complexity with small steps, constant checks, and flexible plans.