Scrum is the most widely used Agile framework. It structures work into fixed-length iterations called Sprints (typically 2 weeks) with defined roles, ceremonies, and artifacts.
The Three Roles
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Product Owner | Defines the product vision, prioritizes the backlog, represents stakeholders. Decides what to build. |
| Scrum Master | Facilitator, coach, removes blockers. Ensures Scrum process is followed. Not a manager — a servant-leader. |
| Development Team | Cross-functional group (developers, testers, designers) that builds the product. Self-organizing — no one tells them how to do the work. |
The Five Ceremonies
- Sprint Planning — team selects backlog items for the sprint and creates a plan. Timebox: 2 hours per week of sprint length.
- Daily Stand-up — 15 minutes, three questions: what did I do yesterday, what will I do today, blockers?
- Sprint Review — demo the working increment to stakeholders. Collect feedback.
- Sprint Retrospective — team inspects its own process. What went well? What can improve? Action items for next sprint.
- Backlog Refinement (optional but common) — PO and team clarify and estimate upcoming items.
The Three Artifacts
| Artifact | What it is |
|---|---|
| Product Backlog | Ordered list of everything that might be needed (features, bugs, tech debt) |
| Sprint Backlog | Items selected for the current sprint + plan to deliver them |
| Increment | Sum of all completed backlog items in the current and past sprints |
Q: Can the sprint backlog change mid-sprint?
A: In theory, no — the sprint backlog is frozen once planning ends. In practice, if the team discovers an item is impossible or unnecessary, they negotiate with the PO. But the principle is: protect the sprint’s focus.
Q: What’s the difference between a Scrum Master and a project manager?
A: A project manager assigns tasks, tracks progress, and reports to management. A Scrum Master facilitates, coaches, and removes impediments — they don’t assign work. The team is self-organizing.
Q: What happens at the end of a sprint?
A: Two ceremonies in one day: Sprint Review (show stakeholders what was built, get feedback) then Sprint Retrospective (team reflects on process). Then immediately Sprint Planning for the next sprint.
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