PSM-1™ Certification - Introduction
Welcome to the beginning of your Professional Scrum Master journey! This introduction module sets the foundation for your PSM-1™ certification preparation, providing essential context, motivation, and guidance for the learning path ahead.
What You'll Learn in This Module
This comprehensive introduction covers everything you need to know before diving into the technical aspects of Scrum:
🎯 Welcome Message
Personal insights and encouragement
Start with inspiration from experienced Scrum practitioners who've walked this path. Learn:
- Why Scrum mastery transforms careers
- What makes great Scrum Masters stand out
- How to approach your certification journey
- Success stories from certified professionals
- Common misconceptions to avoid early
📋 Introduction to PSM-1
Understanding the certification landscape
Get a complete overview of the Professional Scrum Master I certification:
- Exam Structure: 80 questions in 60 minutes
- Passing Score: 85% (68 correct answers)
- Question Types: Multiple choice, multiple answer, true/false
- Exam Language: Available in multiple languages
- Certification Validity: Lifetime certification, no renewal required
- Recognition: Industry-wide acceptance and credibility
💡 Benefits of the Scrum Framework
Why organizations choose Scrum
Discover the compelling advantages that make Scrum the leading Agile framework:
- Faster Time-to-Market: Deliver value in 2-4 week sprints
- Higher Quality: Built-in quality through Definition of Done
- Better ROI: Focus on highest value features first
- Risk Mitigation: Early and frequent inspection points
- Team Satisfaction: Empowered, self-organizing teams
- Customer Delight: Regular feedback and adaptation
Real-world statistics show:
- 70% improvement in team productivity
- 60% faster delivery of features
- 40% reduction in defects
- 85% increase in team morale
🏆 PSM vs CSM Certification
Making an informed certification choice
Compare the two leading Scrum Master certifications:
| Aspect | PSM-1™ | CSM® |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | Scrum.org | Scrum Alliance |
| Prerequisites | None | 2-day training required |
| Cost | $150 (exam only) | $500-2000 (includes training) |
| Validity | Lifetime | 2 years (renewal required) |
| Exam Difficulty | Challenging (85% pass) | Easier (after training) |
| Industry Perception | Knowledge-validated | Training-validated |
| Retake Policy | Immediate, additional fee | Wait period, additional fee |
Why many choose PSM-1:
- Tests actual knowledge, not attendance
- More affordable entry point
- No mandatory training allows self-paced learning
- Lifetime validity provides lasting value
- Higher passing score demonstrates deeper understanding
🚀 Scrum Master or PMP
Choosing your professional path
Understanding career implications of different certifications:
Scrum Master Path:
- Focus on Agile/Scrum environments
- Servant-leadership approach
- Team facilitation and coaching
- Organizational agility champion
- Typical roles: Scrum Master, Agile Coach, Transformation Lead
Project Manager (PMP) Path:
- Traditional and hybrid project environments
- Command-and-control possibilities
- Comprehensive project lifecycle management
- Risk and budget management focus
- Typical roles: Project Manager, Program Manager, PMO Lead
Market Insights:
- Scrum Master demand growing 37% annually
- Average salary: $95,000-130,000 (US)
- Remote opportunities abundant
- Progression to Agile Coach roles ($130,000-180,000)
How This Module Prepares You
This introduction module provides:
- Motivation and Context: Understanding why you're pursuing PSM-1
- Clear Expectations: Knowing what lies ahead in your journey
- Strategic Decisions: Choosing the right certification path
- Foundation Knowledge: Basic concepts before deep diving
- Success Mindset: Approaching learning with the right attitude
Next Steps
After completing this introduction module:
- You'll have clarity on your certification goals
- You'll understand the PSM-1 exam structure
- You'll appreciate Scrum's business value
- You'll be motivated to continue your journey
- You'll have made informed decisions about your path
Time Investment
Plan to spend 2-3 hours on this introduction module:
- 30 minutes: Welcome message and motivation
- 45 minutes: PSM-1 exam deep dive
- 45 minutes: Benefits of Scrum exploration
- 30 minutes: PSM vs CSM comparison
- 30 minutes: Career path evaluation
Ready to begin? Explore each topic below and build a strong foundation for your Scrum Master journey!
Scrum PSM-1™ Certification - Introduction