[Agile & Scrum] Agile Methodology & Srum Framework Flashcards
Sample Questions:
- What is the Agile development methodology, and how does it impact product management?
- What is your experience working in an Agile environment.
3.
What is Agile Methodology
Agile methodology is a flexible, iterative approach to project management and product development that emphasizes collaboration, customer feedback, and rapid adaptation to change. Instead of following a strict, linear plan, Agile breaks work into small, manageable units called iterations or sprints, each producing a functional piece of the product. Teams work closely with stakeholders, including customers, to regularly review and adjust the product based on feedback and evolving requirements. This adaptability allows Agile teams to deliver high-quality products that meet user needs, reduce risks, and continuously improve through ongoing learning and adjustments.
Scrum Framework
Scrum is an Agile framework for managing complex projects that emphasizes teamwork, accountability, and iterative progress towards a well-defined goal. In Scrum, work is divided into fixed-length cycles called sprints, typically lasting two to four weeks, where teams focus on delivering a functional increment/ piece of the product. Key roles include the Product Owner, who prioritizes the product backlog; the Scrum Master, who facilitates the process and removes obstacles; and the Development Team, who self-organizes to complete tasks. Scrum relies on regular ceremonies—like sprint planning, daily standups, sprint reviews, and retrospectives—to promote collaboration, inspect and adapt the work, and continuously improve. This structured yet flexible framework helps teams deliver value faster and respond to changes effectively. No, With Scrum unlike waterfall model, the main focus is on collaborative development, risk is reduced because you are getting feedback early, customers are happy because they can make changes without paying exorbitant cost, minimize risks to frequent changes, receive a high return of investment, roll back changes if needed.
Other Agile Framework
Beyond Scrum, Agile offers several frameworks suited to different team and project needs. Kanban emphasizes visualizing workflow, limiting work-in-progress, and continuous delivery, while Lean focuses on maximizing value by eliminating waste and improving flow. Extreme Programming (XP) is popular in software, emphasizing practices like test-driven development and frequent releases for high-quality code. Crystal is adaptable based on project size and criticality, promoting collaboration and iterative delivery. SAFe helps scale Agile across large organizations by coordinating teams and aligning with strategic goals, and Dynamic Systems Development Method (DSDM) prioritizes timely, iterative delivery with active user involvement. Lastly, Feature-Driven Development (FDD) focuses on building and delivering client-valued features regularly, ensuring consistent progress and high quality. Each framework provides unique benefits, allowing teams to select the best fit for their needs.
My Experience P1
Working as a Product Owner in an Agile environment, I focus on bridging the gap between user needs, business goals, and technical execution to ensure the team delivers high-value outcomes each sprint. My experience begins with translating the product vision into a prioritized backlog, where I clearly define and prioritize user stories based on user impact, business objectives, and feasibility. I collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including developers, designers, and QA, to clarify requirements, address any roadblocks, and make quick decisions that keep the project moving forward.
My Experience P2
In each sprint, I’m deeply involved in Agile ceremonies: I lead sprint planning by setting clear goals and user stories, ensure open communication in daily stand-ups, and facilitate sprint reviews to gather feedback on the product increment. Retrospectives are especially valuable, as they offer a chance to reflect and improve processes, whether it’s adjusting prioritization, fine-tuning story details, or aligning better with technical constraints.
My Experience P3
To stay user-centered, I consistently incorporate user feedback and market insights into the backlog, making adjustments based on real-world data and evolving needs. I work closely with stakeholders, ensuring they’re informed on progress and alignment with business goals while setting realistic expectations. Throughout, my role as a Product Owner is about balancing priorities, enabling collaboration, and being adaptable to ensure the team remains aligned with the product’s vision and delivers incremental value effectively. This experience has reinforced my ability to manage complex projects, respond quickly to change, and keep the team focused and motivated in an Agile setting.