Scrum method: simply explained!
The Scrum Method is a framework of agile project management, which helps teams respond quickly and efficiently to changes and achieve continuous improvements. Originally from software development, Scrum is now used in various areas to manage projects in an agile and flexible way.
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The term “Scrum” comes from rugby, where “Scrum” refers to a tight formation in which players work together on a goal — similar to the approach in a project team, where collaboration is central.
3 central roles in Scrum
In the Scrum Method, there are three main roles, each with specific tasks and responsibilities:
- Product Owner
The product owner represents the interests of stakeholders And customers and is for the Prioritizing responsible for the tasks in the product backlog. He ensures that the team is always working on the most important features and that the best possible product is created.
- Scrum Master
The Scrum Master is responsible for running the Scrum process. He ensures that Project team Follows Scrum principles and removes obstacles that could hinder progress. It promotes team collaboration and self-organization.
- development team
The team consists of developers and other specialists who carry out the work in the sprint. It organizes itself and works iteratively to develop product increments that are presented at the end of each sprint.
The process of the Scrum method
Scrum is divided into sprints, which normally Two to four weeks load. Each sprint goes through defined phases or “events” that ensure progress and team collaboration:
1 ️ Sprint Planning
At the start of each sprint, the team plans the tasks they want to complete during the sprint. These are transferred from the Product Backlog to the Sprint Backlog.
2 ️ Daily Scrum
Every day, the team meets for a short meeting of up to 15 minutes to discuss the current status. It involves three questions: What has been achieved since the last meeting? What will be done until the next? Are there any obstacles?
3 ️ Sprint Review
At the end of the sprint, the finished product increment is presented in a review meeting. Here, the product owner and other stakeholders receive feedback and decide whether further adjustments are necessary.
4 ️ Sprint Retrospective
In the Retrospective, the Team Reflects on Their Collaboration and Looks for Ways to Improve Future Sprints. The aim is to constantly optimize efficiency and workflow.
The 6 Principles of the Scrum Method
The most important artifacts in Scrum
Product backlog
A dynamic list of requirements and tasks that is maintained and prioritized by the product owner. From this, the team draws the tasks for each sprint.
Sprint Backlog
Includes the tasks that the team wants to complete during a sprint. It is created during sprint planning and forms the basis for work in a sprint.
Product Increment
The result of a sprint: a finished, functional product increment that is presented at the end of the sprint.
Benefits of the Scrum Method
✅ Flexibility: Scrum enables teams to react quickly to changes and make continuous improvements.
✅ Transparency: All participants always have insight into the progress of the project, which promotes cooperation.
✅ Customer satisfaction: By constantly improving and adapting the product, customer expectations are optimally met.
Disadvantages of the Scrum Method
❌ Complexity: For teams that don't implement Scrum correctly, the process can become messy.
❌ Endless optimization: As a result of continuous adjustments, there is a risk that projects will never be fully completed.
Conclusion
The Scrum Method offers an effective way to manage projects in an agile way and adapt to constantly changing requirements. With a clear focus on collaboration and continuous improvement, Scrum is an ideal solution for teams that need to respond quickly and flexibly to customer needs.