Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)People & TeamsHard
A Scrum Team is consistently delivering increments that meet the Definition of Done, but key stakeholders are frequently surprised by the functionality delivered, leading to rework after the Sprint Review. The Product Owner is highly engaged but primarily focuses on maximizing the value of the Product Backlog. What aspect of stakeholder management should the Scrum Master focus on to address this issue?
- AEncouraging more frequent and transparent communication channels between stakeholders and the Scrum Team.
- BInsisting that stakeholders attend every Daily Scrum to stay fully informed of progress.
- CCoaching the Developers to only implement features that directly align with expressed stakeholder needs.
- DEnsuring the Product Owner updates the Product Backlog regularly based on stakeholder feedback.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Encouraging more frequent and transparent communication channels between stakeholders and the Scrum Team.
The issue is a 'surprise' at the Sprint Review, indicating a lack of ongoing transparency and communication with stakeholders. While the Product Owner is responsible for maximizing value, the Scrum Master helps the team and organization improve their practices, including effective stakeholder engagement beyond just the Product Owner's backlog management.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Daily Scrum is for Developers; stakeholder attendance is generally discouraged as it can disrupt self-management.
- C. This is a Developer accountability, but the root cause is a communication gap, not necessarily Developer negligence.
- D. While important, this addresses Product Backlog management, not the underlying communication gap causing surprise.
Stakeholder Management (Scrum Master)
The Scrum Master helps the Scrum Team and the organization understand and effectively engage with stakeholders, fostering transparency and collaboration to ensure product success and alignment.
- Facilitates communication between the team and stakeholders.
- Helps manage expectations and build trust.
- Supports the Product Owner in stakeholder collaboration.
Memory trick: Stakeholders need a transparent window, not a wall.