Relative Prioritization

Guide on Relative Prioritization in Agile Project Management

What is Relative Prioritization:
Relative Prioritization is a technique used in Agile Project Management, specifically in managing the product backlog. The technique involves comparing backlog items against each other to assign them a priority. This process allows team members to dedicate their efforts to tasks that offer the highest value.

Why it is Important:
Relative Prioritization is crucial because it ensures that the team's efforts align with the product's strategic objectives by focusing on the most valuable tasks. It also improves efficiency, as less critical tasks are postponed to be worked on after completing high-priority ones.

How it Works:
Working with stakeholders, the product owner assigns a priority value to each item in the product backlog. This method is often based on factors like business value, risk, and dependency. The team then works on the backlog items from the top (highest priority) to the bottom (lowest priority).

Exam Tips - Answering Questions on Relative Prioritization:
1. Understand the Concept: Familiarize yourself with the principles behind Relative Prioritization and how it applies in an Agile context. Comprehend the importance of prioritizing tasks and how it impacts a team’s productivity.
2. Use Relevant Terminology: In your answers, use the appropriate Agile and Relative Prioritization terminologies, demonstrating your understanding of the subject.
3. Be Practical: When answering scenario-based questions, highlight the practical aspects and how you would execute the Relative Prioritization.
4. Consider the Impact: Remember that in Agile projects, the key objective of Relative Prioritization is to maximize the value delivered. Mention how different decision can impact this in your answers.