Answering: “A Product Backlog is:” (PSM I)

A Product Backlog is an inventory of what the product needs, ordered by factors such as value, dependencies and risk, and managed by the Product Owner. It is not a fixed, pre-approved requirements list and it is not hidden from the team.

Exam Question

A Product Backlog is: (choose the best three answers)

• A. An inventory of things to be done for the Product.
• B. Ordered based on priority, value, dependencies, and risk.
• C. An exhaustive list of upfront approved requirements to be implemented.
• D. Managed by the Product Owner.
• E. Only visible to the Product Owner and stakeholders.

Correct Answer

A, B and D.

Why This Is the Correct Answer

The Scrum Guide describes the Product Backlog as “an emergent, ordered list of what is needed to improve the product.” That makes it an inventory of things to be done, and it is ordered. Value, dependencies and risk are typical factors in that order. The Product Owner is accountable for managing it, including “ordering Product Backlog items” and “ensuring that the Product Backlog is transparent, visible and understood.” Because it is emergent, it changes as the team and stakeholders learn, which rules out an upfront approved list.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

C. An exhaustive list of upfront approved requirements. The Product Backlog is emergent and never complete. Freezing it up front contradicts empiricism.

E. Only visible to the Product Owner and stakeholders. The Product Backlog must be transparent and visible, including to the Developers who pull work from it.

Exam Tip

If an option calls the Product Backlog complete, exhaustive, approved or baselined, it is wrong. Scrum’s Product Backlog is emergent and transparent.

Key Takeaways

• The Product Backlog is an emergent, ordered list of product needs.
• The Product Owner is accountable for managing it.
• Everyone, including the Developers, can see it.