Abnormal Termination of a Sprint in Scrum
In Scrum, a Sprint is a timeboxed event, but there are exceptional circumstances under which it can be terminated before its planned conclusion. Let’s examine who has the authority to abnormally terminate a Sprint.
Exam Question
Who can abnormally terminate a Sprint? (choose the best answer)
- A. The Developers.
- B. The Product Owner.
- C. The Stakeholders.
- D. The Scrum Master.
Correct Answer
B. The Product Owner.
Explanation
Why B is Correct
B. The Product Owner:
The Product Owner is the only person with the authority to abnormally terminate a Sprint. This decision is usually made when the Sprint Goal becomes obsolete, or if there is a significant change in direction or priority that makes the work being done in the current Sprint irrelevant or unnecessary.
Why A, C, and D are Incorrect
A. The Developers:
The Developers do not have the authority to terminate a Sprint. Their responsibility is to work on the tasks forecasted during Sprint Planning to meet the Sprint Goal and deliver a potentially releasable increment.
C. The Stakeholders:
Stakeholders do not have the authority to terminate a Sprint. They can provide input and feedback, but the decision to terminate a Sprint rests solely with the Product Owner.
D. The Scrum Master:
The Scrum Master’s responsibility is to facilitate the Scrum process and help remove impediments, but they do not have the authority to terminate a Sprint. This decision is reserved for the Product Owner.
Key Points
- Authority: The Product Owner has the sole authority to terminate a Sprint abnormally.
- Justification: The decision to terminate is typically based on the obsolescence of the Sprint Goal or a significant change in project direction.
- Responsibility: The Product Owner is responsible for maximizing the value of the product and ensuring that the team is working on the most valuable tasks.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: Responsible for maximizing the value of the product and has the authority to terminate a Sprint if necessary.
- Scrum Master: Facilitates the Scrum process and ensures the team adheres to Scrum principles but does not have the authority to terminate a Sprint.
- Developers: Responsible for doing the work forecasted to meet the Sprint Goal and deliver a potentially releasable increment.
- Stakeholders: Provide input and feedback but do not have the authority to terminate a Sprint.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding who has the authority to terminate a Sprint is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge helps candidates appreciate the responsibilities within the Scrum framework and the importance of maintaining focus on delivering value.
Conclusion
In Scrum, only the Product Owner has the authority to abnormally terminate a Sprint. This decision is based on the relevance and value of the work being done in the current Sprint. Understanding this principle is essential for effective Scrum implementation.
For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.
