Agile professionals have often discussed what the
exact role of a product owner should be in Scrum. What virtues should a product
owner possess to be considered a “good” PO? The answers are many. And this is
not surprising because Scrum is a framework, and its implementation in a
project depends upon the requirements specific to the project. When
requirements change, the role of the PO also changes. Therefore, it may not be
possible to standardise the exact role a PO should play in a Scrum project.
A certain process flow remains common to almost
all Scrum projects. The role of a product owner can be thought about in terms
of what POs actually do in a typical Scrum project. Here are a few suggestions:
Common role or activities of a Scrum product owner
· Creating the product backlog as
per the product vision seen by the stakeholders. Defining user stories having
high business values in the backlog so the project “value” is constantly
maintained.
· Monitoring and tracking all
Scrum activities. The role of a product owner may be difficult to act since a
project might be demanding, and the product owner may have to cater to market
related issues and still monitor the work carried out by the team. Balancing
both the aspects can prove to be trying.
· Make sure that the product
backlog is kept refined at all times. Moreover, the product backlog should be
accessible by the entire team.
· Each product backlog item “PBI”
should be properly stated and defined in the product backlog. The story
description, appropriate business value, and the acceptance criteria should be
stated precisely in the story card and explained to the entire team so the team
members can develop effective stories and develop shippable product features.
· To be available whenever
needed, to remain present, and share information, knowledge, as well as
expertise with other team members.
· The PO responsibility should
also include defining productive sprint goals just before a sprint commences.
· A product owner’s
responsibility should also include... Read more at Scrum Product Owner's Role
