Addressing Concerns from a Project Manager in Scrum

When working in a Scrum environment, addressing concerns from a Project Manager about progress and expenditure requires a thoughtful approach. This article provides guidance on how to best respond to such concerns while maintaining Scrum principles.

Exam Question

A Project Manager working with your Scrum Team has raised concerns about progress and money spent. What are the two best responses?
(choose the best two answers)
A. Scrum does not have Project Managers so disregard their concerns.
B. Promote transparency by sharing the Product Backlog and ensuring the Project Manager has access.
C. Show the Earned Value Analysis (EVA) report.
D. Have a discussion with the Project Manager, share the current impediments and forecast for the Sprint.
E. Share the last stakeholder briefing document prepared by the Product Owner.

Correct Answers

B. Promote transparency by sharing the Product Backlog and ensuring the Project Manager has access.
D. Have a discussion with the Project Manager, share the current impediments and forecast for the Sprint.

Explanation

Correct Answers

B. Promote transparency by sharing the Product Backlog and ensuring the Project Manager has access:
Transparency is a core value in Scrum. By sharing the Product Backlog, the Project Manager gains visibility into the work being done, the order of work items, and the overall progress. This openness helps build trust and provides the Project Manager with the necessary information to understand the team’s progress and the allocation of resources.

D. Have a discussion with the Project Manager, share the current impediments and forecast for the Sprint:
Engaging in open communication with the Project Manager allows for the exchange of critical information regarding any current impediments and the forecast for the Sprint. This dialogue helps in aligning expectations and addressing any concerns proactively, ensuring that the Project Manager is informed about the team’s progress and any challenges they are facing.

Incorrect Answers

A. Scrum does not have Project Managers so disregard their concerns: This response is dismissive and goes against the principles of transparency and collaboration in Scrum. While Scrum does not have a traditional Project Manager role, it is essential to address concerns from all stakeholders respectfully.

C. Show the Earned Value Analysis (EVA) report: EVA is a project management tool that might not align well with Scrum’s empirical approach. Scrum focuses on delivering value through iterative development and continuous feedback rather than traditional project management metrics.

E. Share the last stakeholder briefing document prepared by the Product Owner: While sharing stakeholder updates can be helpful, it may not provide the detailed and real-time insights the Project Manager is seeking. The Product Backlog and direct communication are more effective in addressing specific concerns about progress and expenditure.

Responsibilities in Scrum

• Product Owner: The Product Owner is responsible for maximizing the value of the product and managing the Product Backlog. They ensure that stakeholders, including the Project Manager, have visibility into the Product Backlog and understand the priorities and progress.
• Scrum Master: The Scrum Master facilitates communication and transparency within the Scrum Team and with external stakeholders. They help address impediments and ensure that the team adheres to Scrum principles.
• Developers: The Developers are responsible for delivering the Increment and maintaining transparency about their progress and challenges. They work collaboratively to meet the Sprint Goal and adapt as needed.

Relevance to the PSPO I Exam

Understanding how to effectively communicate with stakeholders, including Project Managers, is crucial for the PSPO I exam. This knowledge ensures that candidates can foster transparency and collaboration, which are essential for successful Scrum implementation.

Key Takeaways

• Transparency and open communication are critical in addressing stakeholder concerns.
• Sharing the Product Backlog promotes visibility and trust.
• Engaging in discussions about impediments and forecasts helps align expectations and address concerns proactively.
• The roles in Scrum work together to ensure that progress and challenges are communicated effectively.

Conclusion

Addressing concerns from a Project Manager about progress and expenditure requires promoting transparency and engaging in open communication. By sharing the Product Backlog and discussing current impediments and forecasts, Scrum Teams can build trust and ensure that stakeholders are well-informed. For more information on preparing for the PSPO I exam, visit our PSPO I Exam Prep.