Determining When to Update the Sprint Backlog During a Sprint
The Sprint Backlog is a dynamic artifact in Scrum that may require updates during a Sprint. Understanding who has the authority to update it is crucial for maintaining the flow and progress of the Sprint.
Exam Question
Who determines when it is appropriate to update the Sprint Backlog during a Sprint? (choose the best answer)
- A. The Product Owner.
- B. The Developers.
- C. The Scrum Team.
- D. The Project Manager.
Correct Answer
B. The Developers.
Explanation
Why B is Correct
B. The Developers:
In Scrum, the Developers are self-managing and responsible for executing the work defined in the Sprint Backlog. They have the autonomy to make necessary adjustments to the Sprint Backlog during the Sprint to ensure they stay on track to meet the Sprint Goal. This may include re-prioritizing tasks, adding new tasks, or modifying existing tasks based on their progress and discoveries during the Sprint.
Why A, C, and D are Incorrect
A. The Product Owner:
The Product Owner is responsible for ensuring the Product Backlog is ordered and refined to maximize the flow of value, but they do not directly manage or update the Sprint Backlog during the Sprint.
C. The Scrum Team:
While the Scrum Team collaborates and works together, the specific responsibility of updating the Sprint Backlog lies with the Developers. The term “Scrum Team” includes the Product Owner and Scrum Master, who do not have direct authority to update the Sprint Backlog.
D. The Project Manager:
Scrum does not include the role of a Project Manager. Responsibilities that might traditionally fall to a Project Manager in other frameworks are distributed among the Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Developers in Scrum. Therefore, the Project Manager does not have any authority in this context.
Key Points
- Autonomy: The Developers have the autonomy to update the Sprint Backlog as needed to meet the Sprint Goal.
- Responsibility: The responsibility for managing and executing the work in the Sprint Backlog lies solely with the Developers.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: Ensures the Product Backlog is ordered and refined to maximize the flow of value.
- Scrum Master: Facilitates the Scrum process, helping the team adhere to Scrum principles and removing impediments.
- Developers: Self-manage their work, update the Sprint Backlog as necessary, and collaborate to deliver the Increment.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding who is responsible for updating the Sprint Backlog is crucial for the PSM I exam. This knowledge helps candidates appreciate the autonomy and responsibility of the Developers within the Scrum framework.
Conclusion
The Developers determine when it is appropriate to update the Sprint Backlog during a Sprint. This responsibility reflects their autonomy and accountability for managing and executing the work needed to achieve the Sprint Goal.
For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.
