Written by: Csaba Oláh - PSM I, Business Coach, Team Coach.
Daily Scrum: The key to information flow
A key element of agile development is the Daily Scrum meeting, which aims to facilitate the flow of information and coordinate tasks. In this article, we will show you how to structure and hold a Daily Scrum event so that the team can work effectively and move towards the goals.
What is Daily Scrum?
The Daily Scrum is a short, up to 15-minute event, derived from the Scrum framework, which the development team holds every day and serves as a constant communication and collaboration of the team. Below is a summary of the main focus of Daily Scrum:
Information flow
The event allows team members to share the results of the previous days, current activities and any obstacles. This helps to work in a coordinated way and to transfer information quickly.
- Coordination
Team members work together to allocate and prioritise tasks. This helps to avoid unnecessary overlaps and to move the project forward more efficiently.
- Commitment
It creates a common platform where team members become committed to completing tasks and achieving goals. Regular meetings help build cohesion and a sense of ownership.
Watch also Csaba's video about Daily Scrum (Hungarian version)
Tips for using Daily Scrum effectively
- Regularity
Stick to a daily schedule of meeting times and locations. This will reduce the risk of holding an event, help synchronise the team and communicate effectively.
- Focus and brevity
Keep the meeting short and to the point. Focus on the most important information and don't let the conversation wander.
- Communication and cooperation
Ensure that all team members actively participate in the meeting and share their thoughts and opinions freely. Ask questions and listen to better understand each other's views and help solve problems.
- Regular feedback
It is important to regularly give and receive feedback from team members. This promotes development, collaboration and continuous learning.
- Monitoring and drawing conclusions
There may be obstacles or problems. It is important to monitor and act on them. Put in place appropriate measures to avoid recurring problems.
Incorrect applications of Daily Scrum
- Too long time
If the meeting goes on too long, it loses its essence and effectiveness. It is important that all team members answer questions briefly and concisely.
- Status reporting only
Daily Scrum is not just a status reporting exercise, but an opportunity for the team to collaborate and solve problems. Don't limit yourself to just listing tasks, but be open to the team's opinions and collaboration.
- Product Owner and Scrum Master "stand-up"
During the event, the Product Owner and/or Scrum Master (possibly Line Manager) take the lead, and mainly do the talking. The purpose of the event is usually not clear to the participants. The Daily Scrum is for the development team, they should lead the event.
- Problem solving
Any problems that arise, the team wants to solve immediately in the Daily Scrum. Feel free to put them aside and come back to them after the event.
- Design
The team uses the event to plan, discuss requirements, refine.
- Shift starter
Often the morning Daily Scrums have a shift-starting character. This can indicate a lack of self-organisation in teams.
Why is the "three questions" structure good and why not?
Many teams stick to the "three questions" structure:
- What did I do yesterday to reach the sprint target?
- What will I do today to reach the sprint target?
- Is there anything that is preventing me from doing my job?
Even if it does not bring the hopes for the event. Developers can choose any structure as long as it supports progress towards the sprint goal.
If you have no idea about the structure of the Daily Scrum, the "three questions" can help the team to have a short and concise exchange of information. However, with the agile evolution of the team, this approach can become too mechanical, avoiding the discussion of real problems.
We encourage the team to feel free to share information, problems and opportunities alongside the three questions. It is important that the Daily Scrum does not become just a mandatory routine, but a true collaborative forum where the team can share ideas and find solutions to problems that arise.
In summary
Daily Scrum is key to the effective functioning of the team and the achievement of goals. Proper time management, short and to the point meetings, and continuous communication and coordination contribute to successful projects and higher productivity. Remember that the agile methodology requires flexibility and adaptation, so always be ready to change and evolve based on what you learn during stand-ups.
If you think it's important for a team in an agile environment to be able to synchronise successfully and continuously monitor progress towards goals, then take a look at our current agile training courses!
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