Scrum Methodology – Crib Notes

Essential Vocabulary

• Scrum: Agile framework using fixed-length iterations called Sprints (1–4 weeks).
• Sprint: Fixed-length development cycle delivering incremental value.
• Sprint Goal: Main objective for each sprint.
• Product Backlog: Prioritized list of features/tasks.
• Sprint Backlog: Selected tasks for the current sprint.

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Scrum Workflow Overview

flowchart TD
    ProductBacklog --> SprintPlanning --> SprintExecution
    SprintExecution --> SprintReview --> SprintRetrospective --> NextSprintPlanning
    SprintExecution --Blocked/Change--> AdjustSprint
    AdjustedSprintExecution --> SprintReview

Core Scrum Roles

• Product Owner: Manages backlog priorities and customer liaison.
• Scrum Master: Facilitates process, removes impediments.
• Development Team: Implements features collaboratively.

Scrum Events

• Sprint Planning: Select and commit tasks for the sprint.
• Daily Scrum: Quick daily update, surface issues.
• Sprint Review: Demonstrate completed tasks to stakeholders.
• Sprint Retrospective: Reflect and improve processes.

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Scrum Handling of Common Scenarios

Incorrect Scope (Feature 1 Scenario)

• Immediately flag issue as impediment.
• If unresolved quickly, remove from sprint, return to backlog.
• Utilize freed capacity to refine or reprioritize tasks.

Flow:

• Plan → Impediment raised → Remove from Sprint → Clarify → Next Sprint Planning → Complete in next sprint

Mid-Sprint Requirement Change (Feature 2)

• Preferably defer changes to next sprint.
• For urgent changes: adjust scope mid-sprint if it doesn’t endanger Sprint Goal.
• Major changes may require sprint cancellation (rare).

Flow:

• Plan → Change occurs → Evaluate against Sprint Goal → Minor: Adjust now → Major: Cancel or reschedule → Complete

External Dependency Delay (Feature 3)

• Mark as Blocked immediately.
• Scrum Master facilitates resolution or escalates.
• Consider temporary swap or adjust sprint if possible.
• Integrate once dependency resolved.

Flow:

• Start → Blocked → Facilitate resolution → Temporarily reprioritize tasks → Resolve → Resume & Complete

Smooth Flow to Completion (Feature 4)

• Clear planning and no issues during sprint.
• Continuous testing, adhering to Definition of Done.
• Complete smoothly within a sprint, demonstrate, and release.

Flow:

• Plan → Develop → Test → Review → Done & Release

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Scrum Best Practices

• Sprint Goal: Maintain clear, achievable goals for focus.
• Transparency: Frequent updates and clear communication.
• Inspect and Adapt: Regular retrospectives to improve process.
• Definition of Done: Clear criteria ensuring quality.
• Empowered Teams: Self-organizing teams handling scope and challenges proactively.
• Continuous Delivery: Incrementally deliver value each sprint.

Lifecycle in Scrum (Summary)

• Defined iterations (sprints) providing predictability.
• Immediate impediment management.
• Disciplined handling of scope changes.
• Continuous improvement through structured retrospectives.

Scrum Motto: Inspect regularly, adapt quickly, and deliver incremental, high-quality value each sprint.