Scrum

What is the Scrum framework?

The framework for agile project management is a widely used method for developing complex products – especially in software development. It was developed to give teams a clear structure in which they can work quickly, flexibly and in a customer-centric manner.

Collaboration takes place in short, clearly defined time frames – so-called sprints. Each sprint usually lasts two to four weeks and delivers a functioning interim result. These regular results ensure rapid feedback and make it possible to react quickly to changes.

The process model is based on the principles of the Agile Manifesto and is described in the official Scrum Guide, which was co-developed by Jeff Sutherland.

Structure and processes in agile projects

A typical team consists of three roles:

• The Product Owner is responsible for the business value of the product and manages the entries in the Product Backlog.
• The Scrum Master makes sure that the team understands the way of working and that obstacles are removed.
• The interdisciplinary development team implements the planned tasks independently – often with software developers, designers or testers.

Several recurring events take place in each work phase:

• During sprint planning, the team plans the upcoming tasks.
• In the short daily meetings – also known as daily stand-ups – the team members discuss progress and challenges.
• At the end of a cycle, there is a sprint review in which the results are presented and jointly evaluated.
• The retrospective serves to continuously improve cooperation.

Self-organization, regular delivery of results and a high level of transparency are typical of this approach. The aim is to react flexibly to new requirements, identify risks at an early stage and continuously improve quality. The method is used today in many agile teams and in a wide range of industries.