Six Mistakes of Applying Scrum and How to Overcome it

In the present day, Scrum becomes one of the popular frameworks in product development, especially in the software field. Although Scrum offers many benefits, the implementation often faces various challenges. Implementing Scrum in the wrong way can hamper team productivity, disrupt project goals, and damage the development process. 

In this article, we will discuss six common mistakes that often occur when implementing Scrum and how to avoid them. These mistakes are based on observation and experience of a project in one of the banks in Indonesia that uses Scrum to develop the system. Here are the six point common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Less Understanding the Essence of Scrum 

One of the biggest mistakes is not understanding the basics and essence of Scrum. The team jumped straight into using Scrum without really understanding the underlying principles. This can result in a half-hearted implementation. Scrum is only used as a label, but not followed by proper practices.

To avoid this, before implementing Scrum, it is necessary to ensure that all team members, especially leaders and stakeholders, understand the basic principles of Scrum. Proper training and self-learning are essential to ensure everyone is on the same page.

2. Ignoring Key Roles in Scrum

Scrum has key roles such as Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Development Team. A common mistake is ignoring or mixing these roles, which can lead to confusion and conflict within the team.

To avoid this, it is necessary to ensure that each role in Scrum is filled by the right and committed individual. These roles must be clearly understood, with responsibilities and tasks carried out as expected.

3. Unrealistic Sprint Scope

A team that sets sprints with unrealistic goals, both in terms of time and volume of work. This can impact the end of sprint late, unnecessary pressure, and decreased product quality.

To avoid it we should create  a realistic sprint plan. Make sure the backlog is arranged with clear priorities and team capacity is considered properly. Have an open discussion with the team about what can be achieved in each sprint, and always evaluate the results of the sprint for future improvements.

4. Lack of Communication and Collaboration

Scrum relies on good communication between team members. However, lack of communication and collaboration is often a problem, especially in distributed or remote teams.

To avoid this, it is necessary to hold effective daily stand-up meetings and make sure every team member feels comfortable to speak up. Use collaboration tools that support open communication and create a work culture where everyone feels heard and valued.

5. Ignoring Sprint Retrospectives

Sprint retrospectives are often considered unimportant sessions and ignored by teams. In fact, retrospectives are important moments for reflection and continuous improvement.

To avoid it, we might consider the Sprint Retrospectives. Retro events are important, don’t underestimate retrospectives. Use this session to really evaluate what went well and what needs to be improved. Encourage all team members to actively participate and provide opportunities to voice their opinions.

6. Poorly Managed Product Backlog

Poor product backlog management can lead to confusion and mis prioritization within the team. This often happens when the Product Owner does not regularly update the backlog or does not communicate with the team about priorities.

To avoid it, the Product Owner must actively manage the backlog, ensuring that it is always updated and prioritized correctly. Hold regular backlog grooming sessions with the entire team to ensure everyone understands the current priorities.

And the conclusion, Scrum is a highly effective method for product development when implemented correctly. By understanding and avoiding common mistakes in its implementation, teams can work more efficiently, improve product quality, and better achieve project goals. Remember that Scrum is about adaptation and continuous improvement, so always evaluate and adjust your process to achieve the best results.

Without the knowledge, skills, and dedicated people, Scrum is useless. Teams need help and support from the organization. Mindset shapes culture, and culture shapes process. It takes a positive agile mindset to create a culture that can maximize the benefits of Scrum. Scrum mastery is a journey, not a destination.

—–

Created by : Emyria Natalia Br Sembiring – Quality Assurance Staff