Iterative Development

Correct Answer: Stories are completed rapidly at the start of iterations but slow down significantly towards the end

Stories being completed rapidly at the start but slowing down significantly towards the end is the clearest indicator that process adjustment is needed in iterative development. This pattern suggests: 1. Poor sprint planning or capacity estimation 2. Team burnout or unsustainable pace 3. Technical debt accumulation affecting later story completion 4. Resource allocation issues This pattern is particularly problematic because: - It creates unpredictable delivery timelines - Makes sprint planning unreliable - Indicates potential quality issues due to initial rush - May signal insufficient breaking down of complex stories The other options are less indicative of process problems: - Steady pace with documentation issues is a specific documentation problem, not a process issue - Completing stories based on technical complexity rather than business value is a prioritization issue - Sequential completion with stakeholder misalignment is a product ownership/requirements issue The rapid-then-slow pattern specifically points to fundamental process problems that need immediate adjustment in the iterative development approach.

Correct Answer: Establish clear value metrics for each iteration and share progress visually

The best solution is to establish clear value metrics for each iteration and share progress visually. Here's why: - Value metrics provide tangible evidence of how code contributions impact the overall product - Visual sharing of progress helps team members see their direct impact - Metrics create transparency and alignment with project goals - Regular tracking builds confidence and motivation Why other options are less effective: Extensive documentation and code reviews focus on technical aspects rather than addressing value concerns Bi-weekly performance meetings could increase anxiety and feel punitive rather than supportive Additional training sessions address technical skills but not the core concern about value contribution The chosen solution creates a clear connection between work and value, helping team members understand their impact while maintaining positive team dynamics.

Correct Answer: The team is experiencing a positive learning curve and improving their technical proficiency

In iterative development projects using new technology, a steady increase in team velocity typically indicates successful team adaptation and learning. When teams work with new technology stacks, they naturally start at a moderate pace as they familiarize themselves with the tools and processes. As they gain experience and become more proficient, their velocity naturally increases - this is a positive learning curve pattern. The other options are incorrect because: - Taking unnecessary risks would show irregular velocity patterns and likely lead to quality issues, not steady improvement - If requirements were being simplified, velocity would show sudden jumps rather than steady increases - Reducing project scope to meet deadlines would also show sudden velocity changes rather than gradual improvement The steady increase in velocity is a healthy sign of team growth and technical proficiency development, making this the most logical explanation for the described pattern.