
9/14/2023
ScrumBut and Flaccid Scrum
As organizations embrace Agile methodologies and Scrum to improve their processes, some may fall into the trap of ScrumBut and Flaccid Scrum.
Both the concepts of "ScrumBut" and "Flaccid Scrum", while highlighting potential roadblocks, serve as important reminders of the discipline needed to fully leverage the benefits of the Scrum framework.
Flaccid Scrum surfaces when a team, despite adopting Scrum practices, doesn't fully attain its benefits.
On the other hand, ScrumBut occurs when teams unknowingly dilute the potency of Scrum by bypassing or modifying its principles.
Recognizing these challenges is the first step towards fortifying your Scrum practices. In this article, we will explore ScrumBut and Flaccid Scrum, their common symptoms, and how to overcome them to reap the full benefits of Agile.
ScrumBut refers to using Scrum "but" with exceptions, modifications, or shortcuts that deviate from the established framework.
ScrumBut occurs when a team claims to follow Scrum while making changes that undermine the framework's principles and values. This partial adoption of Scrum can lead to inefficient processes, reduced transparency, and a lack of commitment to improvement.
Flaccid Scrum is a term coined by Martin Fowler (opens in a new tab) to describe teams that adopt the Scrum framework but fail to follow essential engineering practices.
As a result, they need help to deliver high-quality, working software consistently. Flaccid Scrum can lead to technical debt, longer development cycles, and an inability to respond to change effectively.
Some common symptoms of ScrumBut and Flaccid Scrum include:
To overcome ScrumBut and Flaccid Scrum, consider the following steps:
Symptoms of ScrumBut and Flaccid Scrum | Solutions to Overcome ScrumBut and Flaccid Scrum |
---|---|
Inconsistent use of Scrum events | Commit to the Scrum framework and regularly hold Scrum events |
Poorly defined roles | Clarify roles and responsibilities within the Scrum framework |
Neglecting the Definition of Done | Establish and enforce a clear and shared Definition of Done |
Lack of commitment to continuous improvement | Embrace the continuous improvement cycle, especially during Sprint Retrospectives |
Ignoring engineering best practices | Adopt and adhere to essential engineering practices |
Table: Symptoms of ScrumBut and Flaccid Scrum and Solutions to overcome them
By understanding the symptoms and their corresponding solutions, you can make significant strides in overcoming ScrumBut and Flaccid Scrum, ultimately improving your team's performance and product outcome.
ScrumBut and Flaccid Scrum are pitfalls that can hinder the success of Agile teams and prevent them from realizing the full benefits of the Scrum framework.
Flaccid Scrum and ScrumBut represent common pitfalls teams may encounter when adopting the Scrum framework.
Yet, they also provide valuable opportunities for reflection and growth.
Overcoming these challenges requires a steadfast commitment to the core principles and values of Scrum. With the right blend of discipline, agility, and continuous learning, your team can avoid these potential roadblocks and fully harness the power of Scrum.
In your Agile journey, remember that the focus should always be on delivering value, fostering collaboration, and achieving continuous improvement. Ultimately, it's not just about 'doing' Scrum, but about 'being' Agile.