Answering: “Which outcome is expected as a Scrum Team matures?” (PSM I)

As a Scrum Team matures, it is expected to strengthen its Definition of Done with more stringent quality criteria. Maturity never removes timeboxes, events or the Scrum Master.

Exam Question

Which outcome is expected as a Scrum Team matures?
(choose the best answer)
A. There is no need for a timeboxed Sprint.
B. A Scrum Master is no longer needed since they are a mature team now.
C. They will improve their Definition of Done to include more stringent criteria.
D. The Sprint Retrospectives will grow to be longer than 4 hours.
E. Sprint Reviews will no longer be needed.

Correct Answer

C. They will improve their Definition of Done to include more stringent criteria.

Why This Is the Correct Answer

The Definition of Done describes the quality an Increment must meet. Early on, a team may only manage part of what a release needs, for example unit tests without performance or security testing. As the team gains skills, automation and better environments, it can pull more of that work into every Sprint. Earlier editions of the Scrum Guide stated this expectation directly, and the 2020 Guide still treats the Definition of Done as something the Scrum Team adapts as it improves. A stricter Definition of Done means less hidden work, lower risk and Increments that are closer to being released.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

A. There is no need for a timeboxed Sprint. Timeboxes are part of the Scrum framework. Mature teams still use fixed-length Sprints of one month or less.

B. A Scrum Master is no longer needed. The Scrum Master is a required accountability. Mature teams still benefit from someone accountable for effectiveness.

D. Retrospectives grow longer than 4 hours. The Sprint Retrospective has a maximum of three hours for a one-month Sprint. Maturity does not stretch timeboxes.

E. Sprint Reviews are no longer needed. Every Scrum event is needed for inspection and adaptation. Removing one breaks empiricism.

Exam Tip

Any option claiming that a mature team can drop an event, a timebox or an accountability is wrong. Maturity shows up as higher quality, not as less Scrum.

Key Takeaways

• Mature teams raise their Definition of Done.
• All events, timeboxes and accountabilities remain in place.
• Higher quality standards reduce hidden work and risk.