Scrum Working Agreement Template

A Scrum working agreement template is a document that outlines the guidelines and expectations for how a Scrum team will work together. It serves as a reference point for all team members to ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards a common goal. In this article, we will explore the key elements of a Scrum working agreement template and how it can benefit your team.

Table of Contents

1. Key Elements of a Scrum Working Agreement Template
2. Benefits of Using a Scrum Working Agreement Template
3. How to Create a Scrum Working Agreement Template
4. Tips for Implementing a Scrum Working Agreement Template
5. Conclusion

Key Elements of a Scrum Working Agreement Template

A Scrum working agreement template typically includes the following key elements:

1. Team Values and Principles: This section outlines the core values and principles that the team agrees to uphold. This may include openness, transparency, and collaboration.
2. Roles and Responsibilities: Each team member’s role and responsibilities are clearly defined in this section. This helps to avoid confusion and ensure that everyone understands their role within the team.
3. Meeting Schedule: The team’s meeting schedule, including daily stand-ups, sprint planning, and retrospectives, is outlined in this section. This helps to ensure that everyone is aware of when and where meetings will take place.
4. Communication Guidelines: This section outlines how team members should communicate with each other. It may include guidelines for using email, chat tools, or other communication channels.
5. Decision-Making Process: The process for making decisions within the team is defined in this section. This helps to ensure that decisions are made in a timely manner and that everyone’s input is considered.
6. Definition of Done: The team’s definition of done is outlined in this section. This helps to ensure that everyone is clear on what constitutes a completed task or user story.
7. Conflict Resolution: This section outlines the process for resolving conflicts within the team. It may include steps for escalating issues or involving a mediator if necessary.
8. Metrics and Reporting: The team’s metrics and reporting requirements are outlined in this section. This helps to ensure that everyone is aware of what data needs to be collected and reported on.
9. Tools and Technologies: The tools and technologies that the team will use are listed in this section. This helps to ensure that everyone is using the same tools and that there are no compatibility issues.
10. Continuous Improvement: The team’s commitment to continuous improvement is outlined in this section. This may include regular retrospectives and a willingness to experiment with new processes or techniques.

Benefits of Using a Scrum Working Agreement Template

Using a Scrum working agreement template can provide several benefits for your team:

Clarity: A working agreement ensures that everyone is clear on the team’s expectations and guidelines. This helps to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts.

Alignment: A working agreement helps to align the team’s values and principles, ensuring that everyone is working towards a common goal.

Efficiency: By clearly defining roles, responsibilities, and processes, a working agreement can help to streamline the team’s workflow and improve efficiency.

Accountability: A working agreement holds team members accountable for their actions and ensures that everyone is contributing to the team’s success.

Continuous Improvement: By including a commitment to continuous improvement in the working agreement, the team is encouraged to regularly reflect on their processes and make necessary adjustments.

How to Create a Scrum Working Agreement Template

Creating a Scrum working agreement template involves the following steps:

1. Gather the team: Bring together all team members to collaboratively create the working agreement. This ensures that everyone has a voice and ownership in the process.
2. Identify key elements: Identify the key elements that should be included in the working agreement based on the team’s needs and preferences.
3. Document the agreement: Document the working agreement in a clear and concise manner. Use language that is easily understandable and avoid using jargon.
4. Review and revise: Share the working agreement with the team for review and revision. Incorporate feedback and make any necessary changes.
5. Communicate and enforce: Communicate the working agreement to all team members and ensure that everyone understands and agrees to abide by it. Enforce the agreement consistently.

Tips for Implementing a Scrum Working Agreement Template

Here are some tips to help you successfully implement a Scrum working agreement template:

1. Involve the team: Involve the entire team in the creation and revision of the working agreement. This helps to build ownership and commitment.
2. Keep it visible: Display the working agreement in a prominent location where everyone can see it. This serves as a constant reminder of the team’s commitments.
3. Regularly review and update: Schedule regular reviews of the working agreement to ensure that it remains relevant and effective. Update it as needed.
4. Lead by example: As a Scrum Master or team leader, lead by example and demonstrate the behaviors and practices outlined in the working agreement.
5. Encourage feedback: Encourage team members to provide feedback on the working agreement and be open to making changes based on their input.

Conclusion

A Scrum working agreement template is a valuable tool for any Scrum team. It provides clarity, alignment, and accountability, and promotes continuous improvement. By involving the entire team in its creation and implementation, you can ensure that everyone is on the same page and working towards a common goal. Use the tips mentioned in this article to create and successfully implement a Scrum working agreement template for your team.