Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)Scrum Theory & PrinciplesMedium

A Scrum Team is continuously refining its Definition of Done based on feedback from stakeholders, new technologies, and internal process improvements. This ongoing adjustment to ensure quality and completeness is a direct application of which core principle of empiricism?

  1. AAdaptation
  2. BInspection
  3. CSelf-organization
  4. DTransparency
Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: A. Adaptation

The continuous refinement and adjustment of the Definition of Done based on feedback and new insights is a clear example of Adaptation. The team is changing its process and standards to improve the quality and completeness of its work.

Why the other options are wrong

  • B. Inspection would involve reviewing the current DoD, but the subsequent action of changing it is Adaptation.
  • C. Self-organization is a characteristic of Scrum Teams, not one of the three pillars of empiricism.
  • D. Transparency is about making the DoD visible, but the act of changing it is Adaptation.

Empiricism: Adaptation

Adaptation involves adjusting a process or product based on insights gained from inspection, to minimize further deviations from acceptable limits.

  • Occurs as soon as possible after inspection.
  • Requires empowered decision-makers.
  • Is a continuous activity in Scrum.

Memory trick: TIA: Transparency, Inspection, Adaptation – TIA helps us learn!

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