Understanding Stakeholder Disappointment in Sprint Reviews
In Scrum, maintaining continuous communication and transparency with stakeholders is crucial for the success of the project. A common scenario posed in the PSM I exam highlights the potential pitfalls of failing to do so:
Exam Question
At the seventh Sprint Review, the stakeholders are disappointed and angry. They have determined that the product or system being built both will not meet their needs and will cost more than they are willing to spend. What factors may have led to this?
(choose the best two answers)
- A. The stakeholders haven’t been using the Sprint Reviews to inspect and evaluate progress.
- B. The Product Owner has not been keeping the stakeholders aware of the progress of the project.
- C. The Project Management Office (PMO) has not been engaged adequately.
- D. The stakeholders were not allowed to prioritize the Product Backlog items.
Correct Answers
A. The stakeholders haven’t been using the Sprint Reviews to inspect and evaluate progress.
B. The Product Owner has not been keeping the stakeholders aware of the progress of the project.
Detailed Explanation
A. Stakeholder Engagement in Sprint Reviews
Sprint Reviews are critical touchpoints in the Scrum framework. These events are designed to gather feedback from stakeholders and ensure that the product being developed aligns with their needs and expectations. If stakeholders are not actively participating in Sprint Reviews, they miss the opportunity to inspect the increment and provide timely feedback. This can lead to a significant misalignment between what is being built and what is actually needed. Regular involvement of stakeholders in Sprint Reviews helps in:
- Providing Immediate Feedback: Stakeholders can inspect the work done and suggest necessary adjustments.
- Ensuring Alignment: Continuous feedback ensures that the product evolves in the right direction, meeting the stakeholders’ needs.
B. Communication by the Product Owner
The Product Owner plays a pivotal role in Scrum, acting as the bridge between the Scrum Team and the stakeholders. One of their key responsibilities is to keep stakeholders informed about the progress of the project. If the Product Owner fails to communicate effectively, stakeholders may be surprised and disappointed when they finally review the product. Effective communication by the Product Owner includes:
- Regular Updates: Providing consistent updates on progress, challenges, and changes.
- Transparency: Ensuring stakeholders have a clear understanding of the project status and any risks involved.
- Engagement: Involving stakeholders in discussions and decision-making processes to foster a sense of ownership and alignment.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding the importance of stakeholder engagement and the role of the Product Owner in maintaining transparency is crucial for the PSM I exam. These factors highlight the need for continuous inspection, adaptation, and effective communication within the Scrum framework. By mastering these concepts, you can ensure better alignment and satisfaction among stakeholders in real-world Scrum implementations.
Conclusion
In summary, stakeholder disappointment and misalignment in Scrum can often be traced back to two main factors: stakeholders not actively participating in Sprint Reviews and the Product Owner failing to keep them informed about the project’s progress. Addressing these issues through regular feedback loops and effective communication can significantly improve the chances of project success and stakeholder satisfaction.
For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.
