Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)Scrum Theory & PrinciplesHard
A Scrum Team is consistently delivering 'Done' Increments, but the stakeholders frequently express surprise and dissatisfaction during Sprint Reviews because the product's direction seems to diverge from their expectations. The Scrum Master notes that the Product Backlog has not been transparently shared or discussed with key stakeholders outside of the Sprint Review. Which pillar of empiricism is most fundamentally lacking?
- AAdaptation
- BFeedback
- CTransparency
- DInspection
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Transparency
The core issue is that stakeholders are surprised because the Product Backlog, which reflects the product's direction, has not been visible or understood by them. This directly points to a lack of Transparency, as key information about the product and its future is not openly shared and understood by all relevant parties.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Adaptation might be needed, but it cannot happen effectively if the stakeholders' expectations are not transparently understood or if the Product Backlog itself is not transparent.
- B. Feedback is a component of empiricism, but it relies on transparency and inspection to be effective. The fundamental problem here is the lack of visibility of the Product Backlog.
- D. Inspection (e.g., Sprint Review) is happening, but the lack of transparency beforehand makes it less effective.
Empiricism: Transparency
Transparency ensures that the emergent process and the work being performed are visible to both those performing the work and those receiving the work.
- Requires a common language and clear definitions.
- Fosters trust and shared understanding.
- Enables inspection and adaptation.
Memory trick: TIA: Transparency, Inspection, Adaptation – TIA helps us learn!