Managing Dependencies in Product Backlog Ordering
Handling dependencies effectively is crucial in Scrum to ensure that the flow of value is not disrupted. This article addresses how a Product Owner can manage dependencies in the Product Backlog when waiting for an external component.
Exam Question
The Developers are waiting for an external supplier to deliver a specific product component that they need to integrate and use. Without that component there will not be enough work in the next Sprint to occupy the full team. They ask their Product Owner to re-order the Product Backlog. The Product Owner asks the Scrum Master for help. What would be good advice for the Product Owner?
(choose the best answer)
- A. Tell the Product Owner to remove all work involving the external component from the Product Backlog and create a new backlog for it. The work can then be planned in one or more separate Sprints as soon as the component is available.
- B. Tell the Product Owner that his primary concern is the flow of value reflected in the ordering of the Product Backlog. Timeline of the flow might be influenced by such dependencies and require some level of Product Backlog re-ordering.
- C. Tell the Product Owner that the Product Backlog needs to be re-ordered to maximize utilization of the Developers. It is important to keep productivity high through proper use of the capacity available.
Correct Answer
B. Tell the Product Owner that his primary concern is the flow of value reflected in the ordering of the Product Backlog. Timeline of the flow might be influenced by such dependencies and require some level of Product Backlog re-ordering.
Explanation
Correct Answer
B. Tell the Product Owner that his primary concern is the flow of value reflected in the ordering of the Product Backlog. Timeline of the flow might be influenced by such dependencies and require some level of Product Backlog re-ordering:
The Product Owner’s main responsibility is to maximize the value of the product resulting from the work of the Scrum Team. This involves managing and ordering the Product Backlog based on the flow of value, which might need adjustment due to external dependencies. The Product Owner should consider the impact on value delivery when re-ordering the backlog, ensuring that dependencies are managed without disrupting the flow of valuable work.
Incorrect Answers
A. Tell the Product Owner to remove all work involving the external component from the Product Backlog and create a new backlog for it. The work can then be planned in one or more separate Sprints as soon as the component is available:
Creating a separate backlog for specific work is not a recommended practice in Scrum. The Product Backlog should remain a single, unified list of work items. Removing work and planning it separately could lead to fragmentation and loss of visibility.
C. Tell the Product Owner that the Product Backlog needs to be re-ordered to maximize utilization of the Developers. It is important to keep productivity high through proper use of the capacity available:
While keeping the Developers productive is important, the primary concern should be the delivery of value. Focusing solely on maximizing utilization can lead to suboptimal value delivery and may not address the core issue of dependency management.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: Accountable for maximizing the value of the product and managing the Product Backlog. They need to ensure that the ordering of the backlog reflects the flow of value and addresses dependencies effectively.
- Scrum Master: Facilitates Scrum events, helps remove impediments, and ensures that the Scrum framework is understood and enacted. Supports the Product Owner in managing the Product Backlog effectively.
- Developers: Responsible for delivering a potentially releasable Increment and managing their own work. They collaborate with the Product Owner to address dependencies and ensure continuous progress.
Relevance to the PSM II Exam
Understanding how to manage dependencies and prioritize the flow of value in the Product Backlog is crucial for the PSM II exam. This knowledge demonstrates an advanced application of Scrum principles and the ability to handle complex scenarios.
Key Takeaways
- The primary concern of the Product Owner is the flow of value, which may require re-ordering the Product Backlog based on dependencies.
- Maintaining a single, unified Product Backlog is essential for visibility and effective backlog management.
- Focusing on value delivery rather than just maximizing utilization ensures that the Scrum Team works on the most valuable items.
Conclusion
Managing dependencies in the Product Backlog is essential for maintaining the flow of value in Scrum. The Product Owner should prioritize the backlog based on value delivery while considering dependencies, ensuring that the team can continue to deliver valuable increments. For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM II Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.
