Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)Scrum Theory & PrinciplesEasy
A Scrum Team is working on a highly innovative product with rapidly changing customer needs and technological uncertainties. The Product Owner frequently revises the Product Backlog, and the Developers often encounter unforeseen technical challenges. Which approach to managing complexity is most aligned with Scrum's principles in this scenario?
- AIterative and incremental development with frequent feedback loops.
- BAssigning a dedicated 'risk management' role to anticipate all challenges.
- CDetailed upfront planning with fixed requirements to minimize changes.
- DEmphasis on comprehensive documentation of all potential risks and solutions.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Iterative and incremental development with frequent feedback loops.
Scrum thrives in complex environments by embracing empiricism through iterative and incremental delivery. Frequent feedback loops (Sprint Reviews) allow for adaptation to changing needs and uncertainties, which is crucial for highly innovative products.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Risk management is a shared responsibility, and assigning a single role to 'anticipate all challenges' is unrealistic and not aligned with Scrum's collaborative nature.
- C. Detailed upfront planning is antithetical to Scrum's approach to complexity, which embraces change.
- D. While documentation is important, comprehensive upfront documentation of all risks/solutions is impractical and counter-productive in highly uncertain environments.
Complexity Management in Scrum
Scrum addresses complexity through iterative and incremental delivery, enabling teams to learn and adapt to changing requirements and environments.
- Embraces empiricism (Transparency, Inspection, Adaptation).
- Short Sprints and frequent feedback loops.
- Allows for continuous learning and adjustment.
Memory trick: Iterate, Inspect, Adapt: the path through complex fog.