Timeboxes reinforce value by encouraging the people closest to the problem to produce the best result in the time available, and by helping everyone focus on the same problem at the same time. They do not stop the Product Owner from talking to the team or allow planned overtime.
Exam Question
An important aspect of Scrum are timeboxes. Select two ways in which timeboxing reinforces the creation of value. (choose the best two answers)
- A. Timeboxing assures that a Product Owner does not interrupt the Developers during a Sprint.
- B. Timeboxes encourage the people who are closest to the problem to create the best possible result in the time allotted, given the current context.
- C. Scrum Teams can determine on their own how much overtime is acceptable for a timebox, generally expressed as a percentage of the timebox.
- D. Timeboxes help everyone focus on the same problem at the same time.
Correct Answer
B and D.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Every Scrum event has a maximum duration, and the Sprint itself is a fixed-length container. A timebox forces choices: the team works out what matters most and delivers the best it can within the limit, then inspects the result. This favours the people doing the work deciding how to get the best outcome (B). Because the Sprint and its events have a fixed length, everyone works on the same goal within the same window, which builds shared focus (D). The Sprint Goal gives that focus a clear target. Both effects help the team deliver value regularly instead of drifting.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
A. Timeboxes prevent the Product Owner from interrupting the Developers. Timeboxes limit duration. The Product Owner can and should collaborate with the Developers during the Sprint.
C. Teams decide how much overtime a timebox allows. A timebox is a maximum. Allowing planned overruns removes the discipline that makes timeboxes useful.
Exam Tip
If an option suggests a timebox can be stretched or used to keep people apart, eliminate it. Timeboxes set limits that create focus and force prioritization.
Key Takeaways
- Timeboxes are maximum durations.
- They push the team to deliver the best result within limits.
- Shared timeboxes create shared focus.
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More PSM II exam questions
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