Increasing Predictability in Scrum Teams Using Kanban
For Scrum Teams incorporating Kanban practices, improving predictability is key to enhancing workflow and delivery efficiency.
Exam Question
Scrum Teams using Kanban can start to increase predictability by:
(choose the best answer)
A. Inspecting and adapting the Product Backlog during the Sprint Review.
B. Improving transparency by having a CFD, Control Chart and Aging chart.
C. Visualizing the workflow using a Kanban board.
D. Reducing the amount of work in progress by introducing Work in Progress (WIP) Limits.
Correct Answer
D. Reducing the amount of work in progress by introducing Work in Progress (WIP) Limits.
Explanation
Correct Answer
D. Reducing the amount of work in progress by introducing Work in Progress (WIP) Limits:
Introducing WIP limits is a fundamental Kanban practice that directly impacts predictability. By limiting the amount of work in progress, teams can focus on completing tasks more efficiently, reducing multitasking and context switching. This leads to more consistent cycle times and throughput, which in turn makes the team’s delivery more predictable.
Why the Other Options Are Less Effective
A. Inspecting and adapting the Product Backlog during the Sprint Review:
While inspecting and adapting the Product Backlog is important, it does not directly increase predictability. This practice is more about ensuring the backlog is aligned with the latest priorities and feedback.
B. Improving transparency by having a CFD, Control Chart and Aging chart:
Improving transparency through these charts is crucial for monitoring and understanding workflow, but it does not directly impact predictability. These charts help teams identify issues and areas for improvement rather than directly enhancing predictability.
C. Visualizing the workflow using a Kanban board:
Visualizing the workflow with a Kanban board helps improve transparency and manage work, but without WIP limits, it does not significantly enhance predictability. The visualization helps teams see the flow of work, but predictability improves when the flow is controlled through WIP limits.
Importance of WIP Limits
- Consistency: WIP limits help ensure a steady flow of work by preventing the team from taking on too much work at once.
- Focus: Teams can focus on completing current tasks before starting new ones, leading to quicker completion times and more reliable delivery schedules.
- Reduced Bottlenecks: By limiting WIP, teams can identify and address bottlenecks more effectively, further stabilizing their workflow.
Effective Practices for Implementing WIP Limits
- Set Appropriate WIP Limits: Determine suitable WIP limits for different stages of the workflow based on team capacity and historical data.
- Monitor and Adjust: Regularly review WIP limits and adjust them as needed to optimize flow and predictability.
- Use Flow Metrics: Utilize metrics like cycle time and throughput to assess the impact of WIP limits on predictability and make data-driven adjustments.
Relevance to the PSK I Exam
Understanding how WIP limits improve predictability is crucial for the PSK I exam. It demonstrates knowledge of essential Kanban practices that enhance Scrum Team performance and delivery consistency.
Key Takeaways
- Reducing WIP by introducing WIP limits directly increases predictability in Scrum Teams using Kanban.
- WIP limits help ensure a consistent flow of work, reduce bottlenecks, and improve focus and efficiency.
- While transparency and visualization are important, WIP limits have a more direct impact on predictability.
Conclusion
Scrum Teams using Kanban can start to increase predictability by reducing the amount of work in progress through the introduction of Work in Progress (WIP) Limits. For more information on preparing for the PSK I exam, visit our Professional Kanban PSK I™ Exam Prep.
