In an environment where user acceptance testing is required before the Increment can be put into production, a development manager proposes to have user acceptance testing done every third Sprint, because the feedback from the user acceptance tests are disrupting work in Sprints. Is this a good idea?
(choose the best answer)
A. Yes, the Scrum Team is a self-managing team.
B. It depends on what is stated in their Definition of Done.
C. No, the Increment will not be transparent and the feedback loop is too long.
D. Yes, the Scrum Team needs stability in the Sprint.
Answer (2)
The proposed idea of conducting user acceptance testing every third Sprint is not advisable because it disrupts transparency and prolongs the feedback loop. Continuous UAT after each Sprint is crucial for ensuring quality and alignment with user needs. Therefore, the best choice is option C.
;
The best answer to the question regarding user acceptance testing in a Scrum environment is C. No, the Increment will not be transparent and the feedback loop is too long.
In a Scrum framework, user acceptance testing is an important part of ensuring that the product Increment meets the needs and expectations of the end-users. Here’s a detailed explanation of why option C is the best choice:
Transparency of the Increment:
In Scrum, each Sprint should result in a potentially shippable product Increment that is transparent to all stakeholders. This means the product should be visible and understandable, with all elements of its creation visible to everyone involved in the project. Delaying user acceptance testing until every third Sprint diminishes this transparency, as it postpones a clear understanding of whether the product meets user needs.
Feedback Loop:
A core principle of the Scrum framework is the quick feedback loop. Sprints are typically short (1-4 weeks), allowing for rapid cycles of development, feedback, and adjustment. Scheduling user acceptance testing every third Sprint elongates this feedback loop. Longer feedback loops mean that problems and misalignments with user needs can go unnoticed longer, potentially leading to more significant issues later in the development process.
Disruption to Work:
While the development manager is concerned about disruptions, user feedback is essential for guiding the right kind of work. User feedback, although occasionally disruptive, is critical for ensuring the product is valuable and usable. A well-functioning Scrum Team should be able to incorporate feedback without major upheavals, demonstrating their adaptability and responsiveness to user needs.
Definition of Done:
While option B considers the Definition of Done as a factor, it is not a strong argument compared to option C. Ensuring a shorter feedback loop and maintaining transparency are more critical aspects of Scrum than what is typically stipulated in a team’s Definition of Done.
In conclusion, delaying user acceptance testing in a Scrum environment can hinder the transparency of the product Increment and create a feedback loop that is too long, which ultimately can obstruct the delivery of a product that truly meets user expectations.
