PSPO II Practice Question
When to Release a Scrum Product Increment: Key Considerations
Question
A Product Increment is released when:(choose the best answer)
Options
- A A. The Product Owner decides it is ready to be released.
- B B. The definition of “Done” has been met.
- C C. The Increment has met all of its quality goals.
- D D. All planned features for the release are done.
Answer
- A. The Product Owner decides it is ready to be released.
Explanation
A Product Increment is deemed ready for release when the Product Owner decides it is ready to be released. This choice emphasizes the authority of the Product Owner, who is responsible for maximizing the value of the product and ensuring that the Increment meets customer needs. While option B states that the definition of “Done” has been met, it primarily indicates that the Increment is complete from a development perspective, but not necessarily that it is ready for release. Option C mentions quality goals, which are important but do not encompass the complete readiness for release. Lastly, option D focuses on the completion of planned features, which is too narrow; the decision involves broader considerations like market readiness and stakeholder feedback. Therefore, the Product Owner’s decision is essential in determining the timing of a Product Increment release.
Expert Author
JK
James Kim
Technical Scrum Master
Evidence-based management, technical practices, metrics
Why Other Options Are Wrong
{'B': "While the definition of 'Done' indicates that the Increment is complete, it does not necessarily mean it is ready for release. The Product Owner may decide that additional factors need to be considered before releasing.", 'C': "Meeting quality goals is crucial, but it is only one aspect of readiness for release. The Product Owner's decision encompasses more than just quality; it includes market conditions and customer feedback.", 'D': 'Completing all planned features does not guarantee that the Increment is ready for release. There may be other criteria or strategic considerations that the Product Owner must evaluate.'}
Real-World Application
In a Scrum team working on a new software application, the team completes a series of features in a Sprint. After reviewing the Increment, the Product Owner determines that while the features are complete, they need additional user testing before the release. This decision illustrates that the Product Owner’s judgment is crucial in ensuring the Increment is truly ready for the market.
Common Pitfalls
Students often confuse the concept of 'Done' with release readiness, assuming that meeting the definition of Done automatically means the Increment is ready for market. Additionally, they may overlook the strategic role of the Product Owner in determining release timing.
Key Concepts
Product Increment Definition of Done Product Owner's authority Quality goals Release readiness
Scrum Guide Reference
Scrum Guide 2020, Section 3.1 - The Scrum Team
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