Adjusting the Daily Scrum: Scrum Master’s Role
The Daily Scrum is a critical event in Scrum, providing the Developers with a daily opportunity to inspect and adapt their plan towards the Sprint Goal. This article explores the appropriate responses a Scrum Master should take when the Developers propose changes to the Daily Scrum schedule.
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
Correct Answers
A. Coach the team on why the Daily Scrum is important as an opportunity to update the plan:
The Scrum Master should educate the Developers on the purpose of the Daily Scrum. It is an opportunity for the team to inspect their progress toward the Sprint Goal and adapt their plan as necessary. This daily inspection and adaptation cycle helps the team maintain focus and address issues promptly.
C. Learn why the Developers want this and work with them to improve the outcome of the Daily Scrum:
Understanding the reasons behind the Developers’ proposal is crucial. The Scrum Master should facilitate a discussion to uncover any underlying issues with the current Daily Scrum format and work with the team to enhance its effectiveness.
Incorrect Answers
B. Acknowledge and support the self-managing team’s decision:
While self-management is a core principle of Scrum, the Scrum Master must ensure that the team adheres to the framework’s guidelines. Reducing the frequency of the Daily Scrum would conflict with the principles of regular inspection and adaptation.
D. Consider the request and decide on which days the Daily Scrum should occur:
The Scrum Master should facilitate the team’s understanding of Scrum practices rather than making unilateral decisions about when events should occur.
E. Have the Developers vote:
Deciding the frequency of the Daily Scrum through a vote may undermine the purpose of Scrum events. The Scrum Master should guide the team in understanding the value of the Daily Scrum rather than leaving such decisions to a vote.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: The Product Owner is not directly involved in the Daily Scrum but benefits from the team’s improved planning and progress.
- Scrum Master: The Scrum Master facilitates Scrum events and coaches the team on Scrum practices. They ensure that the team understands the importance of the Daily Scrum and helps them improve its effectiveness.
- Developers: The Developers participate in the Daily Scrum to inspect their progress and adapt their plan. They are responsible for their daily activities and maintaining focus on the Sprint Goal.
Relevance to the PSPO I Exam
Understanding the purpose and frequency of Scrum events is essential for the PSPO I exam. This knowledge ensures that candidates can effectively support and guide Scrum Teams in adhering to Scrum practices and principles.
Key Takeaways
- The Daily Scrum is crucial for daily inspection and adaptation toward the Sprint Goal.
- The Scrum Master should coach the team on the importance of the Daily Scrum and facilitate discussions to improve its effectiveness.
- Reducing the frequency of the Daily Scrum conflicts with the principles of Scrum.
Conclusion
The Daily Scrum is a vital event in Scrum that ensures continuous inspection and adaptation. By understanding its importance and guiding the team to use it effectively, the Scrum Master helps the team stay focused on their goals. For more information on preparing for the PSPO I exam, visit our PSPO I Exam Prep.