Anti-Patterns in Agile Teams
This article explores a scenario-based SSM exam question about team dysfunctions and structural issues in Agile environments.
Exam Question
What type of anti-pattern is below:
“The Agile Team has more than one Product Owner.”
Correct Answer
A Structural Anti-Pattern
Explanation
A Structural Anti-Pattern is a recurring organizational setup or team configuration that hinders Agile team performance and delivery. In the SAFe context, this refers to setups that break the principles of Agile cross-functional teams—for example, having separate teams for testing, architecture, or requirements that cause delays and handoffs. Scrum Masters should recognize these patterns and work to eliminate them by fostering cross-functional, empowered teams.
Scrum Master Insights
- Team Design: Recognizing anti-patterns helps Scrum Masters guide improvements to team structures.
- Flow Impediments: Identifying structural blockers allows for smoother value delivery.
- Collaboration: Promoting team ownership and shared responsibilities mitigates these patterns.
Relevance to the SSM Exam
This question evaluates a candidate’s ability to identify dysfunctional structures in an Agile environment. Recognizing and resolving anti-patterns is a crucial part of the Scrum Master’s responsibilities in SAFe.
Key Takeaways
- Structural anti-patterns disrupt Agile team effectiveness.
- Scrum Masters must challenge legacy team configurations that inhibit flow.
- Awareness of organizational impediments is key to SAFe success.
Conclusion
Identifying and resolving structural anti-patterns is essential for Scrum Masters operating in a SAFe environment. For more focused exam prep, visit our SSM Exam Prep.
