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Defining the Scrum model‍

Scrum is a simple, but powerful framework for delivering projects in small, manageable chunks. It's based on a set of principles and practices that emphasize teamwork, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

‍Projects that need Scrum‍

Scrum will work on any type of project, from software development to marketing campaigns or product releases. That said: Scrum is especially powerful for complex projects with greater uncertainty, in which long-term forecasting would be high risk. Scrum guides you through transparency, inspection, and adaptation to achieve the most valuable business outcome.”

‍The process of Scrum‍

Scrum has a well-defined process that helps teams deliver projects in an organized and efficient way. Here are the key steps:

1. Define the product backlog
   A prioritized list of features and requirements for the project.
2. Plan the sprint
   A time-boxed period (typically 2-4 weeks) where the team will focus on delivering a subset of the product backlog.
3. Develop the product
   Work together as a team to design, build, and test the product.
4. Review and retrospect
   Review daily what was delivered, and identify areas for improvement after each sprint.
5. Repeat
   Rinse and repeat, until all the items in the product backlog are complete.

‍Fixed price, flexible scope‍

Traditionally, organizations have relied on a "fixed price, fixed scope" approach to project management. This means that the budget and delivery date are agreed upfront, and the team is expected to deliver the project within those constraints. However, this approach becomes problematic in complex projects, where the client and team will learn along the way and want to make changes.

Scrum provides a more flexible approach, with a "fixed price, flexible scope" approach. This means that the budget is agreed upfront, but the scope of the project is more flexible, allowing for changes and improvements to be made along the way.

‍Expert roles involved in Scrum‍

Scrum relies on a number of expert roles to ensure that the process runs smoothly. Depending on the project the team vary.

• Product Owner
  Responsible for defining the product backlog (things that need to be built), making decisions about what should be delivered, and prioritizing features.
• Scrum Master
  Responsible for facilitating the Scrum process and removing any roadblocks that the team encounters during the project.‍
• Development Team
  Responsible for the coding all elements of the product, and working together as a team to achieve the project goals.
• Design Team
  Responsible for brand design, visual components, mock-up design, user interface and user experience design.‍‍

‍We shouldn't forget the important role of the stakeholders on the client side. They help define requirements, provide feedback (at demo's) and make decisions that influence the course of the project. They work in close collaboration with the Product Owner.

‍The importance of the Product Owner
‍Product Owners (PO) play a critical role in the Scrum process. They are responsible for making decisions about what should be delivered, and ensuring that the project stays on track. It's important that the PO is empowered to make decisions on the go, as this is what allows the team maintain speed and progress. In digital Development there are usually many solutions for a problem or challenge. With the help of a mandated PO, the team is able to make quick decisions and move forward.

Pros of the Scrum Model

1. Faster delivery times
2. Increased collaboration and teamwork
3. Better alignment with changing requirements
4. Improved product quality
5. Increased transparency and accountability

Cons of the Scrum Model

1. Requires strong discipline and dedication from all participants.
2. It can be difficult to get everyone on the same page.
3. Not suitable for organizations that need strict predictability in terms of budget and timeline.

New Story prefers Scrum‍

At New Story, we have a strong preference for working with the Scrum model, given the many complex services we design. However, we understand that Scrum may not be suitable for all projects. That's why we also have other models in place, such as Waterfall, Evolutionary, and Hybrid.

Let's talk about your project‍

Whatever your project is, we have the processes and experts in place to get the job done. Get in touch with us today to discuss your project and find the best approach to bring your vision to life. Our team is always eager to help and find the best solution for you.