Defining the Sprint Backlog During Sprint Planning
The Sprint Backlog is a crucial element in Scrum, outlining the work that the Developers will complete during the Sprint. Let’s explore how much of the Sprint Backlog must be defined during the Sprint Planning event.
Exam Question
How much of the Sprint Backlog must be defined during the Sprint Planning event? (choose the best answer)
- A. Enough so the Developers can create their forecast of what they can do.
- B. Just enough tasks for the Scrum Master to be confident in the Developers’ understanding of the Sprint.
- C. Just enough to understand design and architectural implications.
- D. The entire Sprint Backlog must be identified and estimated by the end of the Sprint Planning event.
Correct Answer
A. Enough so the Developers can create their forecast of what they can do.
Explanation
Why A is Correct
A. Enough so the Developers can create their forecast of what they can do:
During Sprint Planning, the Developers need enough information to make a reasonable forecast of what they can achieve in the upcoming Sprint. This includes having a clear understanding of the selected Product Backlog items and enough detail to begin work. However, not every task or detail needs to be fully defined upfront; some aspects can be elaborated during the Sprint.
Why B, C, and D are Incorrect
B. Just enough tasks for the Scrum Master to be confident in the Developers’ understanding of the Sprint:
While the Scrum Master facilitates the Sprint Planning event, it is the Developers’ responsibility to define the Sprint Backlog. The Scrum Master’s confidence is not the measure; the focus is on the Developers’ ability to create a forecast.
C. Just enough to understand design and architectural implications:
Understanding design and architectural implications is important, but the Sprint Backlog must include enough detail for the Developers to forecast their work, not just high-level implications.
D. The entire Sprint Backlog must be identified and estimated by the end of the Sprint Planning event:
This is not required by Scrum. The Sprint Backlog can evolve during the Sprint as more details become clear and as the team learns more about the work.
Key Points
- Forecasting: The Developers need enough information to forecast what they can complete during the Sprint.
- Flexibility: The Sprint Backlog can evolve during the Sprint as more is learned and details are refined.
- Collaboration: Sprint Planning is a collaborative effort to ensure the team has a clear and achievable plan.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: Provides clarity on the Product Backlog items and ensures they are ready for selection.
- Scrum Master: Facilitates the Sprint Planning event and helps ensure effective communication and collaboration.
- Developers: Define the Sprint Backlog, ensuring there is enough detail to forecast their work and commit to the Sprint Goal.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding how much of the Sprint Backlog needs to be defined during Sprint Planning is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge helps candidates appreciate the balance between having enough detail to start work and allowing flexibility for further refinement during the Sprint.
Conclusion
In Scrum, the Sprint Backlog must be defined enough during Sprint Planning so the Developers can create a reasonable forecast of what they can achieve during the Sprint. This approach ensures clarity, flexibility, and effective planning while allowing the team to adapt as more is learned.
For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.