Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)Scrum Theory & PrinciplesHard
A Product Owner is struggling to prioritize Product Backlog items because stakeholders have conflicting visions for the product's direction. This leads to frequent changes in priority during a Sprint, causing the Developers to context-switch and often abandon partially completed work. Which Scrum Value is primarily being challenged in this scenario?
- ARespect
- BFocus
- CCourage
- DOpenness
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Focus
Frequent changes in priority and context-switching directly undermine the Developers' ability to focus on the Sprint Goal and the work committed for the Sprint. The Scrum Value of Focus emphasizes dedicating attention to the Sprint Goal and current tasks.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Respect could be a secondary issue if the Developers feel their work is not valued, but 'Focus' is more direct.
- C. Courage might be needed by the PO to say 'no' to stakeholders, but the immediate impact on the Developers is loss of focus.
- D. Openness might be lacking in stakeholder alignment, but the direct impact on the team's ability to complete work is a lack of focus.
Scrum Value: Focus
Everyone focuses on the work of the Sprint and the goals of the Scrum Team.
- Essential for achieving the Sprint Goal.
- Reduces context switching and improves efficiency.
- Requires protection from external distractions and changing priorities.
Memory trick: Stay on target, avoid distractions, keep the goal in sight.