Answering: “Developers are self-managing, which of the following do they manage?” (PSM I)

The Developers manage the Sprint Backlog. Sprint length, Product Backlog ordering, Sprint Review invitations and release decisions sit elsewhere.

Exam Question

Developers are self-managing, which of the following do they manage?

(choose the best answer)

• A. Sprint Backlog.
• B. Sprint length.
• C. Product Backlog ordering.
• D. Stakeholders for the Sprint Review.
• E. When to release, based on its progress.

Correct Answer:
A. Sprint Backlog.

Let’s explore why this is the correct answer and delve deeper into the self-management responsibilities of Developers within a Scrum Team.

Correct Answer

A. Sprint Backlog.

Why This Is the Correct Answer

The Scrum Guide says Scrum Teams are self-managing, “meaning they internally decide who does what, when, and how.” For the Developers, that self-management is focused on the Sprint Backlog. They select items with the Product Owner, create the plan, and adapt it every day toward the Sprint Goal. The Guide calls it “a plan by and for the Developers.” Other decisions have different owners. The Product Owner orders the Product Backlog and decides about release, and inviting stakeholders to the Sprint Review is usually the Product Owner’s call. Sprint length is a team-level choice kept consistent across Sprints.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

B. Sprint length. Sprint length is set by the Scrum Team and kept consistent. Developers do not adjust it on their own.

C. Product Backlog ordering. The Product Owner is accountable for ordering the Product Backlog. Developers give input but do not decide.

D. Stakeholders for the Sprint Review. Inviting stakeholders is usually done by the Product Owner. It is not something the Developers manage.

E. When to release, based on progress. Release decisions belong to the Product Owner, who is accountable for value.

Exam Tip

“Self-managing” does not mean the Developers decide everything. Link their self-management to the Sprint Backlog and how they do the work.

Key Takeaways

• Developers own and manage the Sprint Backlog.
• Product Backlog ordering stays with the Product Owner.
• Self-management has clear boundaries in Scrum.