From the Scrum Guide: “Each element of the framework serves a specific purpose that is essential to…”
Just to be sure we agree… From Cambridge Dictionary: “Essential: a basic thing that you cannot live without“.
The purpose of each of the elements of the Scrum framework is essential.
What are these elements?
Looking at the outline of the Scrum Guide you’ll see:
Scrum Theory, containing the empirical pillars Transparency, Inspection, and Adaptation;
Scrum Values, containing focus, openness, respect, courage, and commitment;
a Scrum Team, containing Product Owner, Developers, and Scrum Master accountabilities
Scrum Events, containing Sprint Planning, Daily Scrum, Sprint Review, and Sprint Retrospective, each single one bringing an opportunity to inspect and adapt
and Scrum Artifacts, containing Product Backlog, Sprint Backlog, and Increment, each single one bringing the transparency the team and its stakeholders need.
So, these are essential, each serving a specific purpose.
Do you know the purpose of each single element? Sure? Not what is commonly told about it. But the intended purpose.
For example, a Sprint Planning is often used to have tasks assigned to Developers. That’s not its intended purpose.
A Sprint Review is often used to give a demo to stakeholders and receive approval. That’s not its intended purpose.
A Product Backlog often lists tasks. That’s not its intended purpose.
If you’re no longer 200% about the purpose of each element, then be sure to check these out. You might be interested in my earlier Professional Scrum Series blog posts here at Scrum.org
Questions are of course welcomed!
I hope you find value in these short articles and if you are looking for more clarifications, feel free to take contact.
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Wishing you an inspiring read and a wonderful journey.
Scrum on!