How can Scrum be used for multiple development teams?

Implementing Scrum in a scaled setup with multiple interrelated teams or teams working towards a common product can be effectively managed by introducing a coordination layer. This approach ensures seamless integration and coordination among various teams, enhancing the overall productivity and efficiency of the development process. Various methodologies, such as Scrum of Scrums, LeSS (Large-Scale Scrum), SAFe (Sprint-Aligned Scaling), and others, are designed to serve this purpose.

Implementing a Coordination Layer

The concept of adding a coordination layer is a core principle in scaling Scrum across multiple teams. Different frameworks like LeSS, Scrum of Scrums (SoS), and SAFe all have their distinct ways of describing and implementing this layer, each catering to varying needs and circumstances.

LeSS, for instance, offers an interactive website that provides a clear visualization of how a coordination layer can be established. It uses the concept of fractals, emphasizing that humans have a natural tendency to recognize and repeat patterns. By fractalizing the patterns of coordination, different teams can work more effectively in unison. SAFe, on the other hand, offers a richer toolbox but can be more complex and less intuitive, making it necessary to consider what is most suitable for the specific scenario.

Despite the differences in their approaches, all these frameworks essentially advocate for embedding a coordination layer to manage cross-team dependencies and facilitate smoother integration of work.

Popular Methods for Scaling Scrum

The application of Scrum in a scaled setup can be influenced by numerous factors, and various methods are available to suit these needs. Here are some of the most commonly used approaches, each with its unique characteristics and applicability:

Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe): This framework is particularly useful in large enterprises where complex systems and large-scale product development is the norm. SAFe is known for its integration with enterprise architecture and technology, making it a robust choice for scaling Agile practices. LeSS (Large-Scale Scrum): LeSS focuses on scaling Scrum to larger groups of people beyond the original 6-9 members. It emphasizes simple rules and lightweight processes to ensure that the true benefits of Scrum are not lost with scale. The LeSS framework provides a practical guide for managing multiple teams, aligning them with a common goal. Scrum of Scrums (SoS): This method involves setting up meetings (often bi-weekly) between the Scrum Masters of each team to discuss progress, impediments, and dependencies. This mechanism helps to ensure that each team remains aligned with the overarching goals and works effectively together. Ceryl Method: Crystal methodologies, including Crystal Clear and Crystal Orange, offer flexible frameworks suitable for teams of any size. These methodologies emphasize self-organization and adaptability, providing a range of practices that can be tailored to fit specific team needs. Nexus: Nexus is a framework that builds upon the principles of Scrum to manage multiple Agile teams. It is designed to ensure that the quality and integrity of the product are maintained, even as the number of teams increases.

Any of the above methodologies can be employed to coordinate the development efforts of multiple teams effectively. The choice of methodology depends on the specific circumstances, such as the size of the enterprise, the complexity of the product, and the organizational culture.

Mechanisms for Coordinating Multiple Scrum Teams

To ensure that multiple Scrum teams can work together harmoniously, several mechanisms can be employed, including:

Scrum of Scrums: This involves establishing regular communication channels between the Scrum Masters or representatives of each team to facilitate coordination and alignment. This mechanism helps to identify and resolve inter-team issues, ensuring that all teams are moving in the same direction. LeSS: LeSS provides a comprehensive framework for scaling Scrum. It introduces concepts like thematic releases, which allow teams to work on specific themes or product backlogs that align with the overarching goals of the organization. This approach ensures that all teams are contributing to the same objectives and that their work is aligned with the larger vision. Hybrid Agile Approach: This approach combines elements from multiple methodologies to create a customized solution that fits the specific needs of the organization. By integrating the best practices from various frameworks, a hybrid Agile approach can provide a flexible and adaptable solution for managing multiple teams.

Each of these mechanisms can be tailored to meet the unique needs of the organization, ensuring that the coordination layer is effective in driving successful product delivery.

Conclusion

Scaling Scrum across multiple development teams requires a well-defined coordination layer to ensure effective integration and alignment. Whether through Scrum of Scrums, LeSS, SAFe, or a hybrid approach, the key is to establish a clear mechanism for coordinating the work of multiple teams. By adopting one of these methodologies, organizations can achieve greater collaboration, better communication, and ultimately, successful product delivery.