Adaptive Planning

Correct Answer: Introduce the new feature in the product backlog for consideration in the next sprint planning.

In the Agile methodology, changes and adaptations to the plan are encouraged based on the customer's feedback or the project's evolving needs. So, the most appropriate action when an urgent and high-value feature is requested, even if it was not in the original plan, is to introduce the new feature in the product backlog for consideration in the next sprint planning. This allows for the new requirement to be properly discussed, evaluated, and prioritized without disrupting the current sprint. The overall aim of Agile is to deliver maximum value, hence working on a high-value feature should be considered. Ignoring the request because it was not in the initial plan or insisting that the stakeholder should have included this in their initial requirements goes against the principles of Agile methodology, which is designed to adapt to change. Delaying the current sprint to accommodate the new feature would disrupt the process, its flow and it may demoralize the team.

Correct Answer: Explain the principle of embracing change in Scrum and how it leads to a better product, ask for regular feedback from the stakeholder.

Here is the analysis: Scrum embraces change, it continues to deliver value even when the environment changes, and it allows clients to change their minds about what they want and need. Therefore, the Scrum Master should explain this principle of Scrum to the stakeholder and ask for regular feedback (Answer 1). Scrum is incremental and iterative; it is not realistic to agree to fixed scope and schedule demands, so agreeing to the stakeholder's demands goes against the very principles of Scrum, making Answer 2 incorrect. Avoiding communication with the stakeholder (Answer 3) is not recommended as the Scrum Master needs to explain Scrum principles and get their consent; avoiding communication can lead to misunderstanding and conflict. Similarly, refusing the demands and criticizing the stakeholder (Answer 4) can strain relations and lead to challenges down the road; it's crucial to work collaboratively and maintain open communication. Hence, the most appropriate action would be to explain the principles of embracing change in Scrum (Answer 1).

Correct Answer: Re-estimate the project parameters based on the new scope, and communicate with the client the impacts on project schedule, cost and other relevant factors.

The best approach when a client significantly enhances the project scope halfway into the project is to 'Re-estimate the project parameters based on the new scope, and communicate with the client the impacts on project schedule, cost and other relevant factors.' This reflects agile principles which include flexibility to change and effective communication. On the other hand, 'Continuing with the initial plan despite the client’s additional requests' or 'Immediately accepting the new scope and trying to fit it in the existing project schedule without re-estimation' does not accommodate the realities of scope change and its potential effects on project parameters. 'Rejecting the client's new scope to maintain the original schedule' does not consider the client’s updated needs or preferences, and may result in a product that does not fully satisfy the client.