What is Scrum?
TL;DR
Scrum is a specific Agile framework with defined roles, events, and artifacts that helps teams work together effectively.
Example
Scrum roles:
- Product Owner: Decides what to build, prioritizes work
- Scrum Master: Facilitates process, removes obstacles
- Development Team: Does the actual building
Scrum events (ceremonies):
- Sprint Planning: What will we build this sprint?
- Daily Standup: What did you do? What will you do? Any blockers?
- Sprint Review: Demo of completed work to stakeholders
- Sprint Retrospective: How can we improve?
Scrum artifacts:
- Product Backlog: All features wanted
- Sprint Backlog: Features for this sprint
- Increment: Working software delivered
Typical sprint: 2 weeks long. Team commits to specific features. At end, working software is demonstrated.
Explanation
Scrum vs. Agile
Agile = Philosophy, values, principles Scrum = Specific framework implementing Agile
Other Agile frameworks:
- Kanban (continuous flow)
- XP (Extreme Programming)
- SAFe (for large organizations)
Scrum is the most popular Agile framework.
When Scrum Works Best
- Teams of 3-9 people
- Complex work that benefits from iteration
- Stakeholders available for regular feedback
- Organization supports Agile ways of working
Scrum Challenges
- Requires discipline and practice
- Needs organizational buy-in
- Daily standups can feel bureaucratic
- Not ideal for maintenance work
Why It Matters
For Business Owners
Scrum gives you visibility. Sprint reviews show progress every 2 weeks. No surprises after months of work.
Scrum demands prioritization. You must decide what's most important. Can't build everything at once.
Your role as Product Owner matters. You (or someone representing you) needs to be involved, make decisions, and attend reviews.
Scrum is not magic. It's a framework. The team still needs skills, time, and resources. Scrum just helps organize the work.
Questions for Your Team
- Who is the Product Owner?
- How long are your sprints?
- When are sprint reviews (can I attend)?
- How is the backlog prioritized?
- What was delivered last sprint?
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