Scrum is a framework for agile project management. The method is often used in software development, but also in other areas, to organize and manage complex projects.

Scrum was developed in the early 1990s by Ken Schwaber and Jeff Sutherland. Their idea was based on earlier concepts and practices from software development.

The Scrum method aims to minimize waste and maximize process efficiency by using only the resources, time and effort that are absolutely necessary to create value for the client.

These are the core components of Scrum

Schwaber and Sutherland have jointly defined the Scrum framework, which focuses on flexibility, transparency and adaptability. Here are the core elements of Scrum:

1. there are three roles in the Scrum team

- Product Owner: This person defines project goals and prioritizes tasks.

- Scrum Master: The Scrum Master supports the team and the process, helps to remove obstacles and ensures that Scrum principles are adhered to.

- Development team: A self-organizing group of professionals who develop the product.

2. these artifacts (steps) structure the work

- Product backlog: The product backlog is a comprehensive list of all required work, features, functions, improvements and bug fixes. The product owner is responsible for maintaining and prioritizing the product backlog to ensure that the team is always working on the most important and valuable tasks.

- Sprint Backlog: The specific amount of work the team plans to complete in a sprint (a set period of time, usually 2-4 weeks). The sprint backlog is dynamic and can be adjusted during the sprint as the team learns more about the tasks to be completed.

- Increment: The finished product of a sprint that is potentially deliverable to the customer. The basic idea behind this: An increment is a completed, extensible and potentially shippable version of the product that contains all the features and improvements implemented during the sprint. This means that each increment builds on the previous one and provides additional functionality or improvements, gradually completing the product.

3. these ceremonies (procedures) are part of the Scrum process

- Sprint Planning: A meeting in which the team decides what will be included in the next sprint.

- Daily Scrum (Daily Stand-up): A short daily meeting (no longer than 15 minutes) to review progress and plan for the next day.

- Sprint Review: A meeting at the end of the sprint to present the work accomplished and receive feedback.

- Sprint Retrospective: A meeting to reflect on the previous sprint and plan improvements for the next sprint.

First of all: The term "backlog", which is essential to the Scrum methodology, comes from the English language. It refers to a list or collection of tasks, requirements or functions that still need to be completed in a project or product. The backlog is therefore a backlog of work that needs to be completed.

Through the steps and methods outlined, Scrum ensures transparency, review options and adjustments throughout the entire project.

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How to become a Scrum Master

To become a Scrum Master, you need a combination of formal training, certification and practical experience in agile environments. The following steps have proven successful:

1. basic understanding of Agile and Scrum

First, you should familiarize yourself with the basic principles of Agile and the Scrum framework. There are many online resources, books and courses that provide a solid understanding of these methodologies, such as the books by the creators of Scrum (Jeff Sutherland: Scrum: The Art of Doing Twice the Work in Half the Time or Agile Project Management with Scrum by Ken Schwaber).

2 Formal education and training

Many training providers offer courses in Scrum and Agile. These courses range from introductions to Agile and Scrum to specific training for Scrum Masters. Such courses are often interactive and offer practical exercises to simulate Scrum processes.

3. obtain certification

In order to be recognized as a Scrum Master, it is common to obtain a professional certification. The two best-known certifications are

- Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) from the Scrum Alliance: to obtain this certification, you must complete a two-day course with a certified trainer and then pass an exam.

- Professional Scrum Master (PSM) from Scrum.org: This certification requires passing an exam, which can be taken without mandatory courses, although courses are offered.

4. gain practical experience

Practical experience is crucial. Many start out as team members on a Scrum team to gain experience with the daily processes and challenges of Scrum. Working under the guidance of an experienced Scrum Master can also be very valuable to gain practical knowledge and insight.

How to finance your Scrum certificate

The cost of a Scrum Master certification can vary considerably. Basic courses and certifications such as CSM and PSM range from €700 to €1,200, while more advanced certifications can cost up to €1,800. Additional expenses are incurred for materials and membership renewals.

So compare the prices of the various providers and think about your financing options:

- Self-funding: many individuals choose to cover the cost of their training and certification themselves, especially if they want to improve their job prospects or progress in their career.

- Employer funding: In many cases, employers will cover the cost of training and certification, especially if the Scrum methodology is actively used in the organization or if developing these skills can directly contribute to increasing team productivity or improving project management processes.

- Educational grants and scholarships: Some educational providers or professional organizations offer scholarships or grants for courses. There are also regional and national funding programs that support professional development, especially in industries that require continuous education.

- Tax deductibility: In some countries, the cost of continuing professional development may be tax deductible, which can reduce the financial burden on individuals or their employers.

As an employee, you should talk to your employer to explore possible support - especially if the skills acquired can directly contribute to the company's success!

Conclusion: Scrum is an effective method of project management that enables rapid adaptation to market needs through clear roles, structured processes and regular reviews. Qualifying as a Scrum Master can not only be helpful for the organization of work in your company, but also a valuable qualification building block for your career.

If you want to work more efficiently in other ways, take a look at our article 5 methods to get more out of your workinspire you!