Managing Tension in a Sprint Review

Sprint Reviews are critical for inspecting the Increment and adapting the Product Backlog based on stakeholder feedback. However, they can sometimes become tense, especially when funding issues are raised. This article explores a specific exam question about handling such situations as a Scrum Master, providing detailed explanations and insights relevant to the PSM II exam.

Exam Question

In the Sprint Review, one of the stakeholders highlights the money spent this year, and that due to market changes, the funding may run out. An argument follows this statement, with raised voices and strong emotional statements. As a Scrum Master, what are your two best options? (choose the best two answers)

• A. Defend the budget, asking the stakeholders to support the funding of the work.
• B. Encourage the stakeholders to focus on delivering the highest value items for the next Sprint.
• C. Ask for a short break for people to calm down and be objective.
• D. It is the Product Owner’s meeting, so do nothing.
• E. Argue that the team needs to be kept busy while the funding is confirmed.

Correct Answers

B. Encourage the stakeholders to focus on delivering the highest value items for the next Sprint.
C. Ask for a short break for people to calm down and be objective.

Explanation

Correct Answers

B. Encourage the stakeholders to focus on delivering the highest value items for the next Sprint: In the face of funding uncertainties, it is essential to focus on maximizing value. By encouraging stakeholders to prioritize the highest value items for the next Sprint, the Scrum Master helps ensure that the most critical work is addressed, providing the best return on investment and maintaining alignment with business goals.

C. Ask for a short break for people to calm down and be objective: When emotions run high, taking a short break can help everyone regain their composure and approach the discussion more rationally. This break can prevent the situation from escalating further and allows for more productive and objective dialogue once the meeting resumes.

Incorrect Answers

A. Defend the budget, asking the stakeholders to support the funding of the work: While defending the budget might seem like a supportive action, it can further escalate tensions. The focus should be on delivering value and finding solutions, not on arguing about budget constraints.

D. It is the Product Owner’s meeting, so do nothing: Although the Sprint Review is led by the Product Owner, the Scrum Master has a responsibility to facilitate effective communication and resolve conflicts. Doing nothing in a tense situation can be detrimental to team morale and stakeholder relations.

E. Argue that the team needs to be kept busy while the funding is confirmed: This approach does not address the core issue of funding uncertainty and can be seen as avoiding the problem. It is more productive to focus on value delivery and effective use of resources.

Responsibilities in Scrum

• Product Owner: Ensures that the Product Backlog is prioritized to maximize value and aligns with the stakeholders’ needs. They should work closely with stakeholders to address funding concerns and adapt plans accordingly.
• Scrum Master: Facilitates Scrum events, ensures effective communication, and helps the team and stakeholders navigate conflicts. The Scrum Master also promotes a focus on delivering value and maintaining a productive environment.
• Developers: Collaborate to deliver potentially shippable Increments each Sprint. They rely on the Scrum Master and Product Owner to handle external concerns such as funding so they can focus on their work.

Relevance to the PSM II Exam

Understanding how to manage stakeholder interactions and conflicts during Sprint Reviews is crucial for the PSM II exam. It demonstrates advanced knowledge of Scrum practices and the ability to maintain focus on value delivery despite external pressures. Mastering this concept ensures that Scrum Masters can facilitate productive discussions and help their teams navigate challenging situations effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Encourage stakeholders to focus on delivering the highest value items, especially when facing funding uncertainties.
• Taking a short break during heated discussions can help calm emotions and promote objective dialogue.
• The Scrum Master’s role includes facilitating effective communication and conflict resolution during Scrum events.

Conclusion

Managing tensions during Sprint Reviews requires a focus on value delivery and effective conflict resolution. By encouraging stakeholders to prioritize high-value items and taking breaks when emotions run high, Scrum Masters can facilitate productive discussions and maintain a positive working environment. This understanding is essential for effective Scrum implementation and success in the PSM II exam. For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM II Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.