Scrum Team Membership Changes
In Scrum, the stability and productivity of a Scrum Team are crucial for continuous improvement and delivery of high-value Increments. Changes in team membership can have significant impacts on the team’s performance and dynamics.
Exam Question
How often should Scrum Team membership change? (choose the best answer)
- A. Every Sprint to promote shared learning.
- B. As needed, while taking into account a short-term reduction in productivity.
- C. Never, because it reduces productivity.
- D. As needed, with no special allowance for changes in productivity.
Correct Answer
B. As needed, while taking into account a short-term reduction in productivity.
Explanation
Why B is Correct
B. As needed, while taking into account a short-term reduction in productivity: Team membership should change as needed to respond to evolving project requirements, personal development needs, or organizational changes. However, it is important to recognize that any change in team composition can lead to a temporary dip in productivity as new members are onboarded and team dynamics adjust. This approach balances the need for flexibility with an awareness of the impact on team performance.
Why A, C, and D are Incorrect
A. Every Sprint to promote shared learning: Constantly changing team membership every Sprint disrupts team cohesion and stability, leading to continuous learning curves and lack of long-term productivity.
C. Never, because it reduces productivity: While stability is important, it is impractical to never change team membership. Teams need the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances, and there are times when changes are necessary for the overall benefit of the project or organization.
D. As needed, with no special allowance for changes in productivity: Ignoring the impact of team changes on productivity can lead to unrealistic expectations and frustration. It is crucial to plan for and manage the temporary productivity dip that often accompanies changes in team composition.
Key Points
- Flexibility: Team membership should change as needed to meet project and organizational needs.
- Impact on Productivity: Recognize and plan for a temporary reduction in productivity when team membership changes.
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. Supports the team in managing changes and maintaining productivity.
- Developers: Collaborate to complete all tasks necessary to deliver a potentially shippable Increment, ensuring all work meets the Definition of Done. Adapt to team changes and continue working towards the Sprint Goal.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding how to manage changes in Scrum Team membership is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge highlights the importance of balancing flexibility with productivity and ensuring the team can continue to deliver high-value Increments despite changes.
Conclusion
Scrum Team membership should change as needed while taking into account a short-term reduction in productivity. This approach allows the team to adapt to evolving requirements and organizational changes while maintaining a realistic perspective on the impact of such changes.
For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.
