The Scrum methodology is a great option for carrying out complex projects in an organization . Based on the concepts of agile methods, it aims to reduce product delivery time and also to adapt to changes more easily throughout the production stages.
If this technique of working has not yet been used by you, do not panic: it may be difficult at the beginning but the methodology in reality is rather easy to implement, as long as you comprehend how to leverage it in your organisation. To make things simpler, in this article, we will talk more about how it is pivotal to your business and how to apply such. Stay tuned!
What is Scrum methodology?
This is a method that was initially used to organize, plan and manage projects related to software creation. However, nowadays, it is possible to find teams that apply the strategy to various types of projects. By using the Scrum methodology, you and your team will operate with support for all the actions of the participants, guiding the work, daily activities and the execution of tasks in a productive way.
The fact is that activities are divided into sprints, that is, into specific stages that concern the set of actions that need to be executed. It is a work method carried out from smaller cycles of activities within a project .
Each cycle is designed in advance and consists of a predetermined period of time in which the tasks must be completed by the team. The Scrum methodology enables the enhancement of group work and monitoring of product development, always aiming for production quality and compliance with deadlines.
What are the advantages of using it?
The scrum methodology brings the main benefits that are part of successful companies. Check out what they are below!
Reduces risks
This methodology’s focus on quality results in a dramatic reduction in the number of bugs in software developed under this management. Problems can be detected early on because activities are divided into smaller work periods. This makes it easier to make the necessary corrections quickly, reducing project risks, avoiding rework, and reducing costs .
Increases the value offered to customers.
The fact is that the objective of companies, when using software installed on employees ‘ machines or on their servers, is to look for solutions that are capable of solving their problems and making them more productive and competitive.
This way, it is possible to generate more value for customers in order to remain solid in the market. SCRUM focuses on the most relevant elements of the project, that is, the features that increase the value that is delivered to consumers. The tasks performed in the organization during the sprints aim to optimize the perception of the services offered and increase loyalty.
A product development is offered to the client at each iteration of Scrum (sprint). It is necessary for all projects to deliver value. However, it is important to note that you will never be able to offer everything the client wants, especially when you take into account the deadline they requested and their budget.
However, the process of forming and prioritizing a Product Backlog means that the demands of greatest value to the customer are met first, which will be delivered in parts at each iteration.
A stakeholder approach, such as Scrum, and an emphasis on business value ensure a customer-focused, not software-focused, structure. Always remember that contractors don’t want your software per se, but the value it generates.
Improves team productivity
Something amazing happens when teams start working through sprints and releases. They stop waiting for milestones and start celebrating each completed sprint, which gives them a sense of satisfaction for their efforts throughout the project, not just at the end.
This, as well as eliminating wasted time and company resources, increases productivity , achieving more expressive results.
How to use the Scrum methodology in your company?
To start using scrum in your company, you need to start with four important steps:
1. Assemble a team
The first step to using the Scrum methodology is to assemble a multidisciplinary team that will carry out all stages of product development. This is where you need to delegate the central roles of Scrum — Product Owner and Scrum Master — as well as the other professionals who will participate in the team. It is important to emphasize that the Scrum Master must be someone with a broad understanding of the methodology.
2. Create a backlog
Once the team has been assembled, it is time to start planning the Product Backlog , determining the product’s features and then establishing the order of priority on the list. It is essential to emphasize that, as new needs arise, the Product Backlog can be modified throughout the process and these changes must be made by the Product Owner .
3. Plan and start sprints
Next, it is essential to plan the work sprints. What activities will be carried out in each cycle and who will be responsible for them? How long will they last, taking into account that they must follow a standard? These questions are essential to continue the process.
4. Organize the process visually
This practice helps to monitor progress, enabling the status of each task to be checked. To do this, it is recommended to use Kanban, an agile methodology that classifies tasks into three phases: what needs to be done, what is in progress and what has already been completed.
Finally, adopting the Scrum methodology in your company can be very useful for streamlining your routine , making projects more efficient and high-quality, simplifying problem diagnosis, and providing the team with the means to solve them as quickly as possible. It’s a great way to improve results and reduce costs.