Identifying Likely Issues in a Nexus Without a Shared Environment
When multiple Scrum Teams are working within a Nexus and do not utilize a shared environment, it can lead to several significant challenges that impact integration and overall product development.
Exam Question
Scenario A: Nexus Sprint Review with Five Scrum Teams
There are five Scrum Teams working on a Product. During the Nexus Sprint Review, the teams present the results of the Sprint. After introductions, each team takes time to present their work for inspection by individually showing the new features they have built. They are not using a shared environment. The stakeholders do not provide much feedback. The event ends and people filter out of the room.
Since teams are not using a shared environment, what is likely?
(choose the best two answers)
A. The Nexus has not yet reached the integration phase.
B. The Sprint is too short.
C. The Nexus Integration Team is lacking or nonexistent.
D. There is no single Integrated Increment.
Correct Answers
C. The Nexus Integration Team is lacking or nonexistent.
D. There is no single Integrated Increment.
Explanation
Correct Answers
C. The Nexus Integration Team is lacking or nonexistent:
The Nexus Integration Team (NIT) is essential for ensuring that the work of all Scrum Teams within the Nexus is integrated into a single, unified increment. If the teams are not using a shared environment, it suggests that the NIT is either not present or not functioning effectively. The NIT’s role includes overseeing integration practices, addressing cross-team dependencies, and ensuring that integration occurs continuously throughout the Sprint.
D. There is no single Integrated Increment:
A fundamental principle of the Nexus framework is the creation of a single Integrated Increment at the end of each Sprint. If teams are not using a shared environment, it is highly likely that they are not producing a single, cohesive increment. This situation hinders the ability to deliver a fully integrated product, impedes transparency, and reduces the effectiveness of inspection and adaptation during the Nexus Sprint Review.
Why the Other Options Are Less Effective
A. The Nexus has not yet reached the integration phase:
This option is not valid because integration should be a continuous process within a Nexus, not a distinct phase. The lack of a shared environment points to ongoing integration issues rather than a specific phase that has not been reached.
B. The Sprint is too short:
The duration of the Sprint is not directly related to the lack of a shared environment. While a short Sprint might introduce some challenges, the primary issue here is the absence of effective integration practices and a unified increment.
Benefits of Effective Integration Practices
- Unified Product Delivery: Ensures that all work is integrated into a single increment, promoting cohesive product development.
- Improved Transparency: Provides a clear view of the progress and state of the product, facilitating better inspection and adaptation.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Encourages teams to work together towards a common goal, fostering a collaborative environment.
- Stakeholder Engagement: Increases stakeholder involvement by presenting a complete and integrated increment, leading to more meaningful feedback.
Relevance to the SPS Exam
Understanding the importance of integration and the role of the Nexus Integration Team is crucial for the SPS exam. It demonstrates the ability to apply scaled Scrum practices to ensure that multiple teams work together effectively to deliver a unified product.
Key Takeaways
- The Nexus Integration Team is essential for managing dependencies and ensuring continuous integration.
- A single Integrated Increment is fundamental to the Nexus framework and essential for effective inspection and adaptation.
- Effective integration practices lead to better product quality, transparency, and stakeholder engagement.
Conclusion
Ensuring effective integration within a Nexus is critical for delivering high-quality products and maintaining stakeholder engagement. By focusing on continuous integration and the role of the Nexus Integration Team, Scrum Teams can enhance their collaboration and product delivery. For more information on preparing for the SPS exam, visit our Scaled Professional Scrum SPS™ Exam Prep.
