Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)Scrum Theory & PrinciplesMedium
A Scrum Team is working on a project with a very high degree of uncertainty regarding the technology stack and user requirements. The Product Owner frequently reorders the Product Backlog, and the Developers often need to discard work due to unforeseen technical challenges or changing priorities. This environment best exemplifies which characteristic?
- AComplexity
- BSimplicity
- CStability
- DPredictability
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Complexity
High uncertainty in technology and requirements, frequent reordering, and discarded work are all hallmarks of a complex environment, where the cause-and-effect relationships are largely unknown and emergent.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Simplicity suggests clear, known solutions, which is contrary to the description of technical challenges and uncertainty.
- C. Stability implies consistent requirements and technology, which is not the case here.
- D. Predictability is the opposite of what is described; the environment is highly unpredictable.
Complexity in Product Development
A state where cause-and-effect relationships are largely unknown and only become apparent in retrospect. Requires experimentation and emergent solutions rather than predefined plans.
- Characterized by high uncertainty and unpredictability.
- Scrum is designed to thrive in complex environments.
- Requires frequent inspection and adaptation.
Memory trick: Complex means you learn as you go, no clear path.