Answering: “Who determines how work is performed during the Sprint?” (PSPO I)

The Developers decide how the work gets done during the Sprint. The Scrum Team as a whole is a tempting choice, but the plan for turning items into an Increment belongs to the Developers.

Exam Question

Who determines how work is performed during the Sprint?
(choose the best answer)
A. The Scrum Master.
B. The Scrum Team.
C. The Developers.
D. Subject matter experts.
E. Team manager.

Correct Answer

C. The Developers.

Why This Is the Correct Answer

In Sprint Planning, the Scrum Guide’s third topic is how the chosen work will get done. It says this is “at the sole discretion of the Developers” and that no one else tells them how to turn Product Backlog items into Increments of value. The Developers then adapt that plan every day, using the Daily Scrum to inspect progress toward the Sprint Goal. The Product Owner and Scrum Master help with clarification and coaching. They do not prescribe technical approach or task assignments, unless they are also actively working as Developers on Sprint Backlog items.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

A. The Scrum Master. The Scrum Master coaches and removes impediments. Deciding how the work is done would undermine the team’s self-management.

B. The Scrum Team. The Scrum Team is self-managing as a whole, but the Scrum Guide gives the decision on how to do the Sprint’s work specifically to the Developers.

D. Subject matter experts. Outside experts can advise if the Developers invite them, but they do not decide.

E. Team manager. Scrum has no team manager accountability. Directing the work from outside contradicts self-management.

Exam Tip

When the question is about “how” the work is done, pick the narrowest correct group: the Developers. “Scrum Team” fits questions about what is in the Increment or the Definition of Done.

Key Takeaways

• How to do the work is the Developers’ call.
• The Sprint Backlog plan is adapted daily.
• Scrum has no manager who assigns tasks.