Answering: “When might a Sprint be cancelled?” (PSM I)

Understanding When a Sprint Might Be Cancelled

In Scrum, the decision to cancel a Sprint is significant and typically occurs under specific circumstances that affect the Sprint Goal. Here is an analysis of when a Sprint might be cancelled:

Exam Question

When might a Sprint be cancelled? (choose the best answer)

• A. When it becomes clear that not everything will be finished by the end of the Sprint.
• B. When the Developers determine the product plan is infeasible.
• C. When the sales department has an important new opportunity.
• D. When the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete.

Correct Answer

D. When the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete.

Explanation

Why D is Correct

A Sprint is typically cancelled if the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete. This can happen due to significant changes in market conditions, shifts in customer needs, or other external factors that render the Sprint Goal irrelevant. The cancellation of a Sprint is a serious decision and is usually made by the Product Owner.

Key Points

• Obsolete Sprint Goal: If the Sprint Goal no longer holds value or relevance, continuing the Sprint is futile.
• Product Owner’s Decision: The Product Owner has the authority to cancel a Sprint based on the viability of the Sprint Goal.
• Impact on Work: Cancelling a Sprint leads to a reassessment of work done and planning for future Sprints based on new insights or priorities.

Roles and Responsibilities in Scrum

• Product Owner: Has the authority to cancel the Sprint if the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete. This decision is made to ensure that the team does not waste effort on work that no longer delivers value.
• Scrum Master: Facilitates the process and helps the team understand the implications of the Sprint cancellation.
• Developers: Adapt to the new direction and collaborate with the Product Owner to plan subsequent actions.

Relevance to the PSM I Exam

Understanding the circumstances under which a Sprint can be cancelled is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge helps candidates recognize the importance of the Sprint Goal and the Product Owner’s role in maintaining the focus and value of the team’s work.

Conclusion

A Sprint might be cancelled when the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete. This decision, typically made by the Product Owner, ensures that the Scrum Team focuses on delivering value and does not waste time on efforts that no longer align with the project’s objectives.