Description: Scrum is an agile framework for managing complex projects, emphasizing iterative progress and collaboration. It is based on the idea that teams can quickly adapt to changes and continuously improve through short work cycles called ‘sprints’. In each sprint, typically lasting between one to four weeks, increments of the product are planned, developed, and reviewed. This approach allows teams to respond to changing customer and market needs, ensuring that the final product is relevant and of high quality. Scrum promotes transparency, inspection, and adaptation, meaning teams must be open about their progress and willing to adjust their approach as needed. Daily meetings, known as ‘scrums’, are a fundamental part of this framework, where team members share what they have done, what they plan to do, and any obstacles they face. Additionally, Scrum defines specific roles, such as the Product Owner, who represents the voice of the customer, and the Scrum Master, who facilitates the process and removes impediments. In summary, Scrum is a methodology that not only seeks efficiency in project delivery but also fosters a collaborative and adaptive work environment, essential in today’s dynamic world.
History: Scrum was developed in the 1990s by Jeff Sutherland and Ken Schwaber, who sought to improve project management in the software development field. In 1995, they presented the framework at a conference of the Object-Oriented Programming, Systems, Languages & Applications (OOPSLA), where its focus on adaptability and collaboration was highlighted. Since then, Scrum has evolved and become one of the most popular agile methods, being adopted by various industries beyond software, including manufacturing and marketing.
Uses: Scrum is primarily used in project management, but its application has expanded to other areas such as software development, marketing, and education. It is particularly useful in environments where requirements frequently change and where rapid and continuous delivery of products or services is needed. Organizations use it to improve communication among teams, increase productivity, and foster innovation.
Examples: A practical example of Scrum is the development of a mobile application, where a team can break the work into sprints to release incremental versions of the product. Another case is in the marketing field, where a team can use Scrum to plan and execute advertising campaigns more agilely and effectively, quickly adapting to market results and feedback.
