Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I)Scrum Master StancesMedium
During a Sprint Planning session, the Development Team members are struggling to agree on a clear Sprint Goal, resulting in a fragmented and unfocused Sprint Backlog. The Product Owner is present but not actively guiding the discussion towards a unified goal. What is the most appropriate Scrum Master stance to take?
- ATeacher, by explaining the importance and characteristics of a good Sprint Goal to both the Product Owner and the Development Team.
- BFacilitator, by guiding the discussion, asking probing questions, and ensuring all voices are heard to help the team converge on a Sprint Goal.
- CCoach, by challenging the team and Product Owner to self-organize and collaboratively define a valuable Sprint Goal.
- DMentor, by suggesting a specific Sprint Goal based on past experiences with similar projects.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Facilitator, by guiding the discussion, asking probing questions, and ensuring all voices are heard to help the team converge on a Sprint Goal.
The immediate need is to help the group converge on a clear Sprint Goal. As a Facilitator, the Scrum Master can guide the discussion, manage time, encourage participation, and help the team and Product Owner collaborate effectively to achieve the event's purpose.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Teaching might be necessary if knowledge is lacking, but the immediate problem is a lack of convergence, which facilitation directly addresses.
- C. Coaching is a good long-term strategy, but in the moment of a struggling meeting, active facilitation is more direct for achieving the Sprint Goal.
- D. Mentoring by suggesting a specific goal removes the team's self-organizing responsibility and the Product Owner's accountability for value.
Scrum Master as Facilitator
The Scrum Master acts as a Facilitator by ensuring Scrum events are positive, productive, and kept within their timeboxes, helping the Scrum Team achieve their objectives.
- Guides discussions and decision-making.
- Ensures clear communication and collaboration.
- Helps the team adhere to Scrum event purposes and timeboxes.
Memory trick: Facilitators Focus on Flow for Fruitful Forums.