Establishing the Length of a Sprint in a Nexus
When establishing the length of a Sprint in a Nexus, it is important to consider several factors that can impact the effectiveness and efficiency of the Scrum Teams. The right Sprint length can help manage risk, foster collaboration, and ensure alignment with stakeholders.
Exam Question
From the below list, what factors should be most considered when establishing the length of a Sprint?
(choose the best two answers)
A. The frequency at which team formation can be changed.
B. All teams in a Nexus must have the same Sprint length.
C. The Nexus Integration Team determines the Sprint length for all teams in the Nexus.
D. The risk of being disconnected from the stakeholders.
E. The level of uncertainty over the technology to be used.
Correct Answers
D. The risk of being disconnected from the stakeholders.
E. The level of uncertainty over the technology to be used.
Explanation
Correct Answers
D. The risk of being disconnected from the stakeholders:
A key factor in determining the length of a Sprint is how often the Scrum Teams need to receive feedback from stakeholders. Shorter Sprints allow for more frequent inspection and adaptation, which can be critical when the risk of being disconnected from stakeholders is high. This frequent interaction ensures that the product is evolving in line with stakeholder expectations and market needs.
E. The level of uncertainty over the technology to be used:
When there is a high level of uncertainty regarding the technology, shorter Sprints can be beneficial. They allow the team to experiment, learn, and adapt quickly without committing to a long period of work that might need significant rework. This iterative approach helps in managing technical risks and uncertainties more effectively.
Why the Other Options Are Less Relevant
A. The frequency at which team formation can be changed:
While team formation stability is important, it is not directly related to the determination of Sprint length. Sprint length should be focused on optimizing the delivery of value and managing risk rather than the frequency of changing team formations.
B. All teams in a Nexus must have the same Sprint length:
Consistency in Sprint length across teams in a Nexus is important for synchronization, but this is a guideline rather than a determining factor for Sprint length. The focus should be on how well the chosen Sprint length supports the goals and context of the Nexus.
C. The Nexus Integration Team determines the Sprint length for all teams in the Nexus:
The Nexus Integration Team facilitates coordination and integration, but the decision on Sprint length should be based on broader considerations such as stakeholder engagement and technological uncertainty rather than being solely determined by the Nexus Integration Team.
Benefits of Proper Sprint Length
- Frequent Feedback: Shorter Sprints ensure regular feedback from stakeholders, enabling timely adjustments and alignment with expectations.
- Risk Management: By iterating quickly, teams can identify and address risks related to technology and market changes early in the process.
- Improved Adaptability: Teams can adapt their strategies and work based on the learnings from each Sprint, leading to continuous improvement.
Relevance to the SPS Exam
Understanding the factors that influence the determination of Sprint length is crucial for the SPS exam. It demonstrates the ability to apply Scrum principles effectively in a scaled environment, ensuring that the teams are aligned and can deliver value efficiently.
Key Takeaways
- Consider the risk of stakeholder disconnection and technological uncertainty when establishing Sprint length.
- Ensure that the chosen Sprint length supports frequent feedback and risk management.
- Focus on delivering value and enabling continuous improvement through appropriate Sprint lengths.
Conclusion
Determining the right Sprint length is vital for the success of a Nexus. By focusing on stakeholder engagement and managing technological uncertainties, Scrum Teams can optimize their delivery and ensure they are continuously aligned with their goals. For more information on preparing for the SPS exam, visit our Scaled Professional Scrum SPS™ Exam Prep.
