Scrum of Scrums, also known as SoS or meta-Scrum, is a technique used in Agile methodologies to coordinate multiple Scrum teams working on a large project. It essentially functions as a scaling mechanism for Scrum.
Here's a breakdown of how it works:
- Individual Scrum Teams: Your project is divided into smaller, self-organizing Scrum teams, typically of 5-10 members each. Each team follows the standard Scrum framework with Sprints, Daily Standups, and Backlog refinement.
- Team Representatives: Each Scrum team designates a representative (Scrum Master, Product Owner, or another team member) to attend the Scrum of Scrums meeting.
- SoS Meeting: This is a time-boxed meeting (usually daily or every other day) where representatives from each Scrum team come together. During this meeting, they:Share updates on their team's progress within the current Sprint.Discuss any dependencies or roadblocks between teams.Identify areas for collaboration and problem-solving across teams.Synchronize efforts to ensure everyone is aligned towards the overall project goals.
Benefits of Scrum of Scrums:
- Improved Transparency and Communication: SoS meetings foster better communication and information flow between teams, reducing silos and ensuring everyone is on the same page.
- Early Identification of Dependencies: By discussing dependencies upfront, potential issues can be addressed before they significantly impact the project timeline.
- Enhanced Collaboration: SoS meetings encourage collaboration across teams, leading to more efficient problem-solving and innovation.
- Faster Decision Making: With representatives from each team present, decisions can be made quicker and more effectively.
In essence, Scrum of Scrums helps to maintain agility and focus even when managing complex projects with multiple interdependent teams.