Addressing Stakeholder Concerns about Performance in Scrum
In Scrum, responding to stakeholder feedback promptly and effectively is crucial for delivering a valuable product. This article explores a specific exam question about how a Scrum Master should handle a stakeholder’s concern about product performance, providing detailed explanations and insights relevant to the PSM II exam.
Exam Question
Several Sprints into a project, the Product Owner tells the Scrum Master that a key stakeholder just started using the product. The stakeholder is unhappy with the slow performance, a complaint that the Product Owner agrees on. How will you move this forward? (choose the best answer)
- A. Wait to bring this up in the next Sprint Retrospective as this is the appropriate time for the Scrum Team to re-consider the Definition of Done.
- B. Bring the concern to the testers in the Scrum Team and ask them to improve how the system is tested.
- C. Explain to the Product Owner that it’s up to the Developers to decide on acceptable performance standards as they own the Definition of Done.
- D. Encourage the Product Owner to bring the performance concerns to the Developers and work with them on how to improve performance, and ultimately have stronger Definition of Done.
Correct Answer
D. Encourage the Product Owner to bring the performance concerns to the Developers and work with them on how to improve performance, and ultimately have stronger Definition of Done.
Explanation
Correct Answer
D. Encourage the Product Owner to bring the performance concerns to the Developers and work with them on how to improve performance, and ultimately have stronger Definition of Done: This approach aligns with Scrum’s emphasis on collaboration and continuous improvement. By bringing the performance concerns to the Developers, the Product Owner ensures that the issue is addressed directly and promptly. Working together, they can refine the Definition of Done to include performance criteria, leading to higher-quality increments in future Sprints.
Incorrect Answers
A. Wait to bring this up in the next Sprint Retrospective as this is the appropriate time for the Scrum Team to re-consider the Definition of Done: While Sprint Retrospectives are essential for continuous improvement, waiting until the next Retrospective may delay addressing the performance issue, potentially causing further dissatisfaction.
B. Bring the concern to the testers in the Scrum Team and ask them to improve how the system is tested: This approach focuses too narrowly on testing. Performance issues may require changes in various areas, such as code optimization, infrastructure, or design. It is essential to involve the entire Scrum Team to address the concern holistically.
C. Explain to the Product Owner that it’s up to the Developers to decide on acceptable performance standards as they own the Definition of Done: While Developers are responsible for the Definition of Done, performance standards should be a collaborative effort involving both the Product Owner and Developers to ensure that stakeholder expectations are met.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: The Product Owner is responsible for managing the Product Backlog and ensuring that it delivers value to stakeholders. They work closely with the Developers to prioritize work, including performance improvements, based on stakeholder feedback.
- Scrum Master: The Scrum Master facilitates collaboration and ensures adherence to Scrum practices. They support the team in addressing issues promptly and maintaining a high standard of quality in the product.
- Developers: Developers are responsible for delivering potentially shippable increments at the end of each Sprint. They collaborate with the Product Owner to refine the Definition of Done and address performance issues to meet stakeholder expectations.
Relevance to the PSM II Exam
Understanding how to address stakeholder concerns and improve the Definition of Done is crucial for the PSM II exam. It demonstrates advanced knowledge of Scrum principles and the ability of the Scrum Master to guide the team in delivering high-quality products. Mastering this concept ensures that Scrum Masters can support their teams in responding effectively to feedback and continuously improving their processes.
Key Takeaways
- Addressing stakeholder feedback promptly is essential for delivering a valuable product.
- Collaborating with the Product Owner and Developers to refine the Definition of Done ensures that performance issues are addressed comprehensively.
- Continuous improvement and responsiveness to feedback are core principles of Scrum.
Conclusion
Effectively addressing stakeholder concerns about product performance requires prompt action, collaboration, and a commitment to continuous improvement. By encouraging the Product Owner and Developers to work together on refining the Definition of Done, the Scrum Master ensures that the team can meet stakeholder expectations and deliver high-quality increments. Understanding these principles is crucial for effective Scrum implementation and success in the PSM II exam. For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM II Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.
