Understanding Different Types of Dependencies in Scrum

Dependencies in Scrum can either make or break the momentum of a project. A Scrum Master plays a pivotal role in identifying, managing, and mitigating dependencies to ensure that the team remains on track and delivers value continuously. In this article, we'll explore various types of dependencies, how they impact Agile teams, and best practices for managing them.

What Are Dependencies in Scrum?

In Scrum, a dependency refers to a situation where one task, team, or project requires something from another task, team, or external factor to proceed. Dependencies can slow down progress, affect the sprint's outcome, or block certain actions if not properly managed.

Types of Dependencies in Scrum

1. Internal Dependencies

These are dependencies that exist within the Scrum team itself. For example, if one team member's task depends on the completion of another team member's task, this is an internal dependency.

Examples:

- A developer can't start coding until the design is complete.

- A tester needs the code to be deployed before beginning QA testing.

How to Manage:

Scrum Masters should foster strong communication within the team and ensure that work is broken down into manageable tasks. Cross-functional skills can also help mitigate the impact of internal dependencies by allowing more team members to tackle a broader range of tasks.

2. External Dependencies

External dependencies come from factors outside the Scrum team, such as other teams, departments, vendors, or even regulatory bodies.

Examples:

- Waiting for a third-party API integration.

- Relying on another department for data or assets.

How to Manage:

Scrum Masters should maintain regular communication with external parties and plan sprints while accounting for potential delays. Escalating issues early and collaborating with stakeholders is key.

3. Mandatory Dependencies

These are hard dependencies that are based on logical or legal requirements. These dependencies cannot be altered or removed.

Examples:

- Compliance with legal regulations before a product can be launched.

- A software component must be installed before its configuration can start.

How to Manage:

Proactive planning and early identification are essential. Scrum Masters should ensure that mandatory dependencies are clearly defined during the sprint planning process and continuously tracked throughout the project.

4. Discretionary Dependencies

Also known as soft or preferential dependencies, these are based on best practices or industry standards but can be altered or re-sequenced if necessary.

Examples:

- Preferring to complete the front-end design before back-end development starts.

- Optimizing workflows based on the Scrum team's preferences.

How to Manage:

Scrum Masters should foster flexibility within the team, allowing them to re-prioritize tasks when needed. Continuous improvement through retrospectives can help adjust discretionary dependencies over time.

5. Cross-team Dependencies

In large-scale Agile environments, multiple Scrum teams may work on different parts of the same product. This leads to cross-team dependencies, where one team's progress affects the other.

Examples:

- Team A is waiting for Team B to deliver a feature.

- Teams needing to synchronize on shared components or integration points.

How to Manage:

Scrum Masters should facilitate cross-team communication, often using tools like Scrum of Scrums, to coordinate and align efforts. Breaking down silos and promoting shared ownership can help reduce delays caused by cross-team dependencies.

6. Resource Dependencies

Resource dependencies occur when tasks depend on the availability of certain resources, whether they are people, tools, or technologies.

Examples:

- A developer waiting for access to a specific development environment.

- A team requiring licenses for specialized software tools.

How to Manage:

The Scrum Master should work with resource managers to ensure timely access to required resources. Identifying resource constraints early on in the sprint planning process can help prevent bottlenecks.

Best Practices for Managing Dependencies in Scrum

Managing dependencies efficiently is crucial to maintaining the Agile team's velocity and minimizing risks. Here are some best practices to follow:

- Early Identification: During sprint planning or backlog grooming, identify potential dependencies and plan accordingly.

- Continuous Communication: Facilitate regular communication between all stakeholders to stay on top of dependencies.

- Visualizing Dependencies: Use tools like dependency mapping or Gantt charts to visualize dependencies, making it easier to track and manage them.

- Risk Management: Dependencies are often linked to risks. Scrum Masters should maintain a risk register to keep track of potential issues arising from dependencies.

- Promote Cross-functionality: Build cross-functional teams that are capable of working on various aspects of the product, reducing the reliance on external dependencies.

Final Thoughts

Managing dependencies in Scrum is a continuous process that requires a proactive approach. By identifying and addressing dependencies early, maintaining strong communication, and fostering team autonomy, Scrum Masters can help their teams remain agile and efficient. As organizations scale their Agile practices, mastering the management of dependencies will become increasingly critical to achieving successful, sustainable outcomes.

Learn More About Managing Dependencies as a Scrum Master

If you're looking to deepen your understanding of dependency management in Scrum, consider attending the Mastering Dependencies for Scrum Masters course offered by Scrum Alliance. This course provides practical insights and advanced techniques to help Scrum Masters effectively manage dependencies within Agile teams.

For more information and to attend the course, visit: Mastering Dependencies for Scrum Masters.