Answering: “When does the second Sprint start?” (PSM I)

Timing of the Second Sprint in Scrum

In Scrum, the start and end of Sprints follow a consistent and predictable pattern, ensuring a continuous flow of work and feedback. Let’s explore when the second Sprint begins within the Scrum framework.

Exam Question

When does the second Sprint start? (choose the best answer)

• A. Immediately after the first Sprint.
• B. After the Product Backlog items for the second Sprint has been selected.
• C. Once the architectural changes for the second Sprint are approved by the senior architect.
• D. After the customer completes acceptance testing of the first Sprint.

Correct Answer

A. Immediately after the first Sprint.

Explanation

Why A is Correct

A. Immediately after the first Sprint:

In Scrum, Sprints are continuous and follow one another without any breaks in between. As soon as one Sprint ends, the next Sprint begins immediately. This ensures that the team maintains a consistent cadence and maximizes the delivery of value.

Why B, C, and D are Incorrect

B. After the Product Backlog items for the second Sprint has been selected:

The selection of Product Backlog items for the next Sprint happens during the Sprint Planning meeting, which is part of the process that kicks off the new Sprint.

C. Once the architectural changes for the second Sprint are approved by the senior architect:

Scrum does not require approval from a senior architect to begin a Sprint. Decisions about architecture are made by the Scrum Team as part of their collaborative work.

D. After the customer completes acceptance testing of the first Sprint:

Acceptance testing is part of the definition of “Done” for the increment delivered in the Sprint. The new Sprint starts immediately after the previous one ends, independent of external acceptance testing.

Key Points

• Continuous Flow: Sprints follow one another without gaps, ensuring a continuous flow of work.
• Sprint Planning: The planning for the next Sprint happens at the beginning of the new Sprint, ensuring that the team is always prepared to move forward.
• Team Autonomy: The Scrum Team collectively makes decisions about architecture and other aspects of the work during the Sprint.

Responsibilities in Scrum

• Product Owner: Ensures the Product Backlog is ordered and refined to maximize the value delivered each Sprint.
• Scrum Master: Facilitates the Sprint Review and Sprint Planning meetings, ensuring a smooth transition from one Sprint to the next.
• Developers: Collaboratively plan and execute the work for the new Sprint, immediately following the conclusion of the previous Sprint.

Relevance to the PSM I Exam

Understanding the timing and flow of Sprints is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge helps candidates appreciate the continuous nature of Scrum and the importance of maintaining a steady cadence of work and feedback.

Conclusion

In Scrum, the second Sprint starts immediately after the first Sprint concludes. This continuous flow ensures that the team maintains a consistent cadence and maximizes the delivery of value. Understanding this principle is essential for effective Scrum implementation.