Scrum is a framework to deal with business uncertainties and deliver value. It embodies Agile software development’s manifesto, emphasising flexibility, collaboration, and rapid iteration. However, while Scrum can be effective in helping teams deliver high-quality products efficiently, it can also be challenging to learn and implement. Here are the reasons why Scrum may be hard to understand but is ultimately worth it:
1.It requires a shift in mindset: Scrum requires a shift in thinking from traditional project management approaches, which can be difficult for some people to accept. It emphasises flexibility, collaboration, and adaptability, rather than rigid planning and execution.
2.It requires active participation: Scrum requires all team members to actively participate in the process, which can be challenging for those who are used to a more hierarchical or top-down management style.
3.It requires clear communication: Scrum relies on clear and effective communication between team members and stakeholders. This can be difficult if team members are not used to openly discussing problems and challenges.
4.It requires regular cadence: Scrum involves regular events, such as daily scrum,sprint planning, reviews and retrospectives. If done ineffective, which can seem a waste for team members.
5.It requires upfront planning: While Scrum emphasizes flexibility, it also requires upfront planning in the form of a product backlog and sprint planning. This can be challenging for teams that are not used to this level of planning.
6.It requires commitment: Scrum requires a high level of commitment from all team members. This can be difficult if team members are not fully invested in the project or do not have the necessary resources.
7.It requires a designated Scrum Master: Scrum requires a designated Scrum Master to facilitate the process and ensure that it is being followed correctly. This can be challenging if the Scrum Master is not fully trained or lacks the necessary skills.
8.It requires ongoing learning: Scrum is a constantly evolving framework, and teams must be committed to continuous learning and improvement to be effective. This can be challenging for teams that are not used to ongoing learning and development.
Despite these challenges, Scrum can be highly effective in helping teams deliver high-quality products efficiently. With the proper training, support, and commitment, teams can learn and implement Scrum successfully, resulting in increased productivity and project success.
About Author
Venkatesh Rajamani has more than 17 years of experience delivering working software in short, feedback-driven cycles. He has helped many organisations adopt agile software delivery practices, including large banking, payments, telecom, and product organisations. He started his career as a Software Engineer and spent almost eight years as a hard-core Programmer. He has worked for or with large software delivery organisations, including HP, IBM, Logica, Paypal, Ericsson, RBS and HID. He founded tryScrum.com in 2018 to execute his mission of Humanising Organisations. Venkatesh is fluent in 4 languages. He is based in Chennai, India and sets the overall direction for tryScrum. He is the world’s first to hold PKT, CAL-Educator, PST, CEC & CTC together. He loves reading books, travelling and public speaking.
