Guide on Backlog Grooming for Advanced Scrum Concepts Exam

Backlog grooming, also known as product backlog refinement, is an important aspect of the Scrum framework.

Importance of Backlog Grooming: Backlog grooming is important because it helps to keep the product backlog manageable and ready for the next Sprint. It ensures that the highest priority items are well-defined and the team has a clear understanding of the product backlog items, thus reducing the time spent on discussing the items during the Sprint Planning.

What it is: Backlog grooming involves reviewing product backlog items and ensuring that they are appropriately sized for the upcoming Sprints. This could involve re-prioritising items, splitting larger items into smaller ones, and ensuring that the items align with the product goal.

How it works: Backlog grooming usually involves the Product Owner, Scrum Master and the Development Team. During these sessions, the team will review, estimate and prioritise the product backlog items. The aim is to ensure that the product backlog is ready for the next Sprint planning meeting.

Exam Tips - Answering Questions on Backlog Grooming: When answering questions on backlog grooming, remember that its main purpose is to ensure that the backlog contains the appropriate items, that they are prioritised, and that they are described appropriately. You must also remember the roles of the Product Owner, Scrum Master and Development Team during the grooming sessions. When answering questions it's also beneficial to mention how backlog grooming contributes to a more effective and efficient upcoming Sprint Planning.