Adjusting the Frequency of the Daily Scrum
The Daily Scrum is a vital event in the Scrum framework, providing the team with the opportunity to inspect progress and adapt their plan towards the Sprint Goal. When the Developers suggest changing its frequency, the Scrum Master must respond appropriately.
Exam Question
During a Sprint Retrospective, the Developers propose moving the Daily Scrum to only occur on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Which two are the most appropriate responses for the Scrum Master to recommend? (choose the best two answers)
- A. Coach the team on why the Daily Scrum is important as an opportunity to update the plan.
- B. Acknowledge and support the self-managing team’s decision.
- C. Learn why the Developers want this and work with them to improve the outcome of the Daily Scrum.
- D. Consider the request and decide on which days the Daily Scrum should occur.
- E. Have the Developers vote.
Correct Answers
A. Coach the team on why the Daily Scrum is important as an opportunity to update the plan.
C. Learn why the Developers want this and work with them to improve the outcome of the Daily Scrum.
Explanation
Why A is Correct
A. Coach the team on why the Daily Scrum is important as an opportunity to update the plan:
The Daily Scrum is a crucial event that helps the team inspect progress towards the Sprint Goal and adapt their plan accordingly. Coaching the team on its importance ensures they understand the purpose and benefits of holding it daily, which can lead to better adherence to Scrum practices and improved outcomes.
Why C is Correct
C. Learn why the Developers want this and work with them to improve the outcome of the Daily Scrum:
Understanding the underlying reasons for the Developers’ suggestion can reveal issues that need to be addressed. By working with the team to improve the outcome of the Daily Scrum, the Scrum Master can help ensure that the event remains effective and valuable, while also addressing any concerns or obstacles the team may have.
Why B, D, and E are Incorrect
B. Acknowledge and support the self-managing team’s decision: While it’s important to respect the team’s self-management, the Scrum Master must also ensure that Scrum principles are upheld. The Daily Scrum is a mandatory daily event in Scrum, and reducing its frequency would violate the Scrum framework.
D. Consider the request and decide on which days the Daily Scrum should occur: The Scrum Master should facilitate and coach the team rather than making decisions for them. The decision to change the frequency of the Daily Scrum should not be made by the Scrum Master, as it goes against the Scrum framework.
E. Have the Developers vote: Voting on the frequency of the Daily Scrum undermines the importance of this daily event. The Scrum Master should guide the team to understand why the Daily Scrum is held daily, rather than putting it to a vote.
Key Points
- Coaching: Educating the team on the importance of the Daily Scrum ensures they understand its value.
- Collaboration: Working with the team to address their concerns can lead to improvements in the Daily Scrum’s effectiveness.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: Ensures the Product Backlog is ordered and refined to maximize value and align with the team’s capacity.
- Scrum Master: Facilitates Scrum events, removes impediments, and helps teams adhere to Scrum principles.
- Developers: Plan, manage, and execute all tasks necessary to deliver a potentially shippable Increment, ensuring quality and adherence to the Definition of Done.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding how to respond to suggestions for changing the frequency of the Daily Scrum is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge emphasizes the importance of coaching and collaboration within the Scrum framework.
Conclusion
When the Developers propose changing the frequency of the Daily Scrum, the Scrum Master should coach the team on its importance and work with them to improve its outcomes. These actions help maintain the integrity of the Scrum framework while addressing the team’s concerns.
For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.