What Is a Scrum Master?

What Is a Scrum Master?

There are several advantages to the Scrum project management framework. For starters, teams using Scrum can break up large projects into manageable sprints, incorporate feedback from stakeholders, and optimize project delivery.

But leveraging the effectiveness of Agile Scrum doesn’t happen in a vacuum. It’s up to the Scrum master to clear obstacles, coach the team, and facilitate Agile processes and principles.

Scrum master meaning

Scrum master is a critical “servant leader” role within a Scrum team. Put simply, they are the facilitators for implementing the Scrum framework within an organization and promoting collaboration around the Scrum principles.

While they are not the decision-makers within the team, they work to support Agile processes and establish an effective Scrum environment.

What does a Scrum master do?

Let’s first cover what Scrum masters don’t do. Scrum masters do not manage the product backlog like the product owner or do technical work like the development team. They don’t do team management in a hierarchical way. They also don’t take on the roles of a product manager or project manager. So what do they do?

Scrum masters remove impediments, ensure Scrum processes are being followed, educate the team on best practices and tools, and facilitate Scrum events like the daily Scrum meetings, sprint reviews, and retrospectives. 

A Scrum master's job is crucial for success in Agile, even if they are not directly responsible for the results of projects.

Scrum master responsibilities

The role is best served by an individual who has experience with Scrum and can effectively coach others. In summary, the responsibilities of a Scrum master can look like the following: 

• Creates a conducive Scrum environment where the team can be effective 
• Removes obstacles that may impede the work of the team 
• Ensures that the team does not succumb to outside disruptions and diversions
• Leading changes as a Scrum guide for transitioning into the Scrum framework

How to become a Scrum Master

Wondering how to become a Scrum master? Anyone can embark on this path regardless of their educational background. You can begin your educational journey in a few steps.

1. Read and understand the core concepts of the Agile methodology. This is at the heart of the Scrum methodology. A potential Scrum master should have a thorough understanding of the Agile Scrum framework.
2. Register for a Scrum master certification program. There are plenty of Scrum certification programs to choose from, and they range in price depending on level, location, and other factors. These Scrum master certifications programs educate aspiring candidates on fundamental concepts, best practices, and Scrum ceremonies. 
3. Pass the Scrum master certifications exam. An aspiring Scrum master must pass the certifications examinations, with at least a 75% score. Successful candidates will become certified and the certification must be renewed at the end of a two-year period.

What is a Scrum master certification?

A Scrum master certification is a certification program that anyone wanting to become a professional Scrum master must undertake. There are a handful of certifying bodies whose credentials are worthwhile to employers.

Having their mark of approval will show that you have the prerequisite training and skill to lead Agile teams successfully. Some examples of organizations that issue Scrum certifications include Scrum inc, Scrum.org, and Scrum Alliance. 

There are no formal requirements for candidates who want to obtain the certification. After training, candidates are tested with a 60-minute exam. Successful candidates are given a license agreement and a membership profile.

Why every Scrum team needs a good Scrum master

The role of the Scrum master facilitates the conditions for development teams to achieve successful outcomes. Here are some benefits of having a good Scrum master.

Empowers collaborative group dynamics

Scrum masters ensure that positive group dynamics exist among team members and miscommunications and misunderstandings are quickly addressed and ironed out. They perpetuate a healthy group culture, ensuring team members develop a collaborative approach to project delivery. 

Facilitates rapid implementation of change

During the ongoing development, there may be a need to pivot, either to adjust the goals for the project or to incorporate information from the sprint retrospective. The ability to quickly implement change within Scrum teams is of utmost importance because it directly affects the chances that a development project will be completed in time.

They facilitate change within the development team and ensure that the group morale isn’t damaged when there’s a need to make a pivot. In playing this role, they help the development team stay on the path to success and easily weather any big changes. 

A Scrum trainer for Agile implementation

The success of a development team hinges on the proper implementation of Agile methodologies. The Scrum master plays a crucial role as a coach that guides the team through product development while upholding the core values of Scrum. 

Timely product delivery 

Scrum masters and product managers work together to achieve success. They mediate the product development process and its successful delivery by ensuring that the team remains agile and maintains clear priorities. Their efforts in this regard protect the team and ensure that the team delivers featured products consistently and efficiently. 

Improved workflows

Scrum has clearly defined roles and rituals that should be followed to assure effective execution. A good Scrum master is committed to the Scrum practices and values and maintains flexibility and openness in accessing opportunities to improve the team’s workflow.