Ownership of Sprint Backlog Items in Scrum
In Scrum, the responsibility for delivering work items, including those related to specific tasks like database management, lies with the Developers. The Developers are self-managing and cross-functional, meaning they collectively own the Sprint Backlog and work together to complete all tasks necessary to achieve the Sprint Goal.
Exam Question
Who is responsible for a Sprint Backlog item that contains several database related tasks?
(choose the best answer)
A. Scrum Master.
B. Product Owner.
C. Project Stakeholders.
D. Developers.
E. Database administrator.
Correct Answer
D. Developers.
Explanation
Correct Answer
D. Developers:
In Scrum, the Developers are responsible for all work necessary to deliver a potentially releasable Increment by the end of the Sprint. This includes any Sprint Backlog items, regardless of the specific nature of the tasks. Whether the tasks are related to database management, coding, testing, or documentation, the Developers as a team are collectively responsible for completing them. They may choose to collaborate with specialists like a Database Administrator if needed, but the ultimate responsibility lies with the Developers.
Why the Other Options Are Less Appropriate
A. Scrum Master:
The Scrum Master is responsible for facilitating the Scrum process and helping the team remove impediments, but they do not own Sprint Backlog items or directly manage task completion.
B. Product Owner:
The Product Owner is responsible for maximizing the value of the product and managing the Product Backlog, but the Product Owner does not manage individual tasks within the Sprint Backlog.
C. Project Stakeholders:
Stakeholders are external to the Scrum Team and are typically involved in providing input and feedback, but they do not own or manage Sprint Backlog items.
E. Database Administrator:
While a Database Administrator may have specialized skills and may assist with certain tasks, they are not solely responsible for Sprint Backlog items. The entire team of Developers shares responsibility for all tasks within the Sprint.
Relevance to the PSD Exam
Understanding that the Developers are collectively responsible for all tasks in the Sprint Backlog, regardless of their nature, is crucial for the PSD exam. It emphasizes the importance of cross-functional teams and shared ownership in Scrum.
Key Takeaways
- Developers are collectively responsible for all Sprint Backlog items, including specialized tasks like database management.
- Shared ownership is a fundamental principle in Scrum, ensuring that the team works together to achieve the Sprint Goal.
- The Scrum Master, Product Owner, and stakeholders support the process but do not manage individual Sprint Backlog items.
Conclusion
In Scrum, the Developers are responsible for all work in the Sprint Backlog, including tasks related to database management. This shared responsibility ensures that the team works collaboratively to deliver the Sprint Goal. For more information on preparing for the PSD exam, visit our Professional Scrum Developer PSD™ Exam Prep.
