Supporting the Scrum Team’s Environment and Tools
A key responsibility of a Scrum Master is to ensure that the Scrum Team has the necessary tools and environment to complete each selected Product Backlog item. This article explores appropriate actions a Scrum Master can take when the team lacks these essential resources.
Exam Question
Which two things are appropriate for a Scrum Master to do, if the Scrum Team does not have the tools and environment to completely finish each selected Product Backlog item?
(choose the best two answers)
A. Refocus the current Sprint on establishing the Scrum Team’s environment instead of delivering an Increment.
B. Have the Scrum Team establish a Definition of Done that is actually possible to achieve given the current circumstances.
C. Declare the Scrum Team not ready for Scrum.
D. Encourage the Product Owner to accept partially done Increments until the situation improves.
E. Coach the Scrum Team to improve its skills, tools and environment over time and adjust the Definition of Done accordingly.
Correct Answers
B. Have the Scrum Team establish a Definition of Done that is actually possible to achieve given the current circumstances.
E. Coach the Scrum Team to improve its skills, tools and environment over time and adjust the Definition of Done accordingly.
Explanation
Correct Answers
B. Have the Scrum Team establish a Definition of Done that is actually possible to achieve given the current circumstances:
The Definition of Done (DoD) should be realistic and achievable given the current tools and environment. Adjusting the DoD ensures transparency and sets clear expectations for what constitutes a completed Increment.
E. Coach the Scrum Team to improve its skills, tools and environment over time and adjust the Definition of Done accordingly:
Improving the team’s skills, tools, and environment is a continuous process. The Scrum Master should coach the team to make incremental improvements while adjusting the DoD to reflect the team’s current capabilities.
Incorrect Answers
A. Refocus the current Sprint on establishing the Scrum Team’s environment instead of delivering an Increment: While improving the environment is important, refocusing the entire Sprint away from delivering an Increment goes against the principle of delivering value each Sprint.
C. Declare the Scrum Team not ready for Scrum: This approach is counterproductive. The goal is to support and coach the team to overcome challenges, not to deem them unready for Scrum.
D. Encourage the Product Owner to accept partially done Increments until the situation improves: Partially done Increments do not meet the Definition of Done and do not provide the necessary transparency or value.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: Orders the Product Backlog to maximize value. Collaborates with the team to set achievable goals based on current capabilities.
- Scrum Master: Coaches the team in improving skills, tools, and environment. Ensures the team can meet the Definition of Done.
- Developers: Work to deliver Increments that meet the Definition of Done. Continuously improve their processes and tools.
Relevance to the PSPO I Exam
Understanding how to support a Scrum Team in achieving their Definition of Done despite limitations is crucial for the PSPO I exam. It highlights the importance of continuous improvement and realistic goal setting.
Key Takeaways
- The Definition of Done should be realistic and achievable.
- Continuous improvement of skills, tools, and environment is essential.
- Delivering complete Increments each Sprint is a core Scrum principle.
Conclusion
Supporting the Scrum Team in achieving their Definition of Done, despite limitations, is a vital aspect of a Scrum Master’s role. By fostering continuous improvement and setting realistic expectations, the team can deliver valuable Increments each Sprint. For more information on preparing for the PSPO I exam, visit our PSPO I Exam Prep.
