Determining Completion Time for a Sprint Backlog Item
To accurately predict when a specific Sprint Backlog item that has been started will be finished, certain analytics and charts are more effective.
Exam Question
For a specific Sprint Backlog item that has been started, what is the best chart (analytic) to determine when it will be finished?
(choose the best answer)
A. Cumulative Flow diagram (CFD).
B. Work Item Aging Chart.
C. Control chart.
D. Throughput Run Chart.
Correct Answer
B. Work Item Aging Chart.
Explanation
Correct Answer
B. Work Item Aging Chart:
The Work Item Aging Chart is the most effective tool for determining when a specific Sprint Backlog item that has been started will be finished. This chart tracks the age of work items that are currently in progress, helping teams identify how long each item has been in progress and predict when it might be completed. It highlights items that may be taking longer than expected, allowing teams to focus on them and address potential delays.
Why the Other Options Are Less Effective
A. Cumulative Flow Diagram (CFD):
The CFD provides a broad overview of the workflow, showing the amount of work in each state over time. While useful for identifying bottlenecks and overall flow, it is not specifically designed to predict the completion time of individual items.
C. Control Chart:
The Control Chart is used to track the cycle time of completed items and analyze process stability and variability. It is more suited for understanding process performance over time rather than predicting the completion time of a specific in-progress item.
D. Throughput Run Chart:
The Throughput Run Chart tracks the number of items completed over time, helping to understand the team’s throughput. However, it does not provide insights into the expected completion time of individual in-progress items.
Importance of the Work Item Aging Chart
- Focus on In-Progress Items: The Work Item Aging Chart helps teams monitor and prioritize items that are currently in progress, ensuring timely completion.
- Identify Delays: By highlighting items that have been in progress for a longer-than-expected period, the chart helps teams identify and address potential delays.
- Improve Predictions: It provides a visual representation of the aging of work items, aiding in more accurate predictions of completion times.
Effective Practices for Using the Work Item Aging Chart
- Regular Review: Regularly review the Work Item Aging Chart in team meetings to monitor the progress of in-progress items.
- Identify Stuck Items: Use the chart to identify items that are stuck or taking longer than expected and take corrective actions.
- Optimize Workflow: Use insights from the chart to optimize the workflow and ensure timely completion of tasks.
Relevance to the PSK I Exam
Understanding the role of the Work Item Aging Chart in predicting the completion time of in-progress items is crucial for the PSK I exam. It demonstrates knowledge of effective flow management and analytic tools in Kanban.
Key Takeaways
- The Work Item Aging Chart is the best tool for determining when a specific Sprint Backlog item that has been started will be finished.
- It helps teams monitor in-progress items, identify delays, and improve completion time predictions.
- Regular review and use of the Work Item Aging Chart can optimize workflow and ensure timely task completion.
Conclusion
For predicting when a specific Sprint Backlog item that has been started will be finished, the Work Item Aging Chart is the most appropriate analytic tool. It provides valuable insights into the progress and potential delays of in-progress items. For more information on preparing for the PSK I exam, visit our Professional Kanban PSK I™ Exam Prep.
