Scrum is a framework used primarily for managing software development projects aimed at delivering new software capability every 2-4 weeks. It is one of the most popular forms of agile software development, providing a structured yet flexible methodology for managing complex projects. Scrum is built around a set of core values—courage, focus, commitment, respect, and openness—which guide the behaviors and decision-making processes of the team. The framework itself is designed to encourage close collaboration among team members and to optimize flexibility and productivity in achieving the project's goals.
The basic unit of development in Scrum is the "Sprint," a time-boxed period usually lasting from one to four weeks, during which specific work has to be completed and made ready for review. Each sprint begins with a planning meeting where the team selects tasks from a priority list, called the Product Backlog, which is managed by the Product Owner. The Scrum Master, who is responsible for promoting and supporting Scrum, facilitates these meetings. The goal of each sprint is to produce an increment of potentially shippable product, which drives the iterative improvement in the product.
During the sprint, daily stand-up meetings, or DailyScrums, take place. These are brief, time-boxed meetings (typically 15 minutes) intended to synchronize activities and create a plan for the next 24 hours. This meeting helps the team to make quick adjustments to their work, thus maintaining flexibility and momentum. The Scrum framework emphasizes the importance of visible, real-time information, which is why TaskBoards and burn-down charts are commonly used to track progress and remaining work.
At the end of each sprint, the team holds a Sprint Review and Sprint Retrospective. The Sprint Review involves stakeholders and provides an opportunity to inspect and adapt the product as it evolves, ensuring that the product being built aligns with user needs and business goals. The Sprint Retrospective, however, is focused on the team's processes. This meeting is an opportunity for the team to reflect on its dynamics, processes, and environment, and to make necessary adjustments to improve efficiency and effectiveness. The continual cycle of planning, execution, review, and adaptation is central to the Scrum philosophy, fostering both continuous improvement and rapid adaptation to change, encapsulating the AgileManifesto’s principles.